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Skyway 126 Wind Energy

Design and Operations Report

Prepared by: M.K. Ince and Associates Ltd.

Prepared for: Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP

June 14, 2013

June 14, 2013

Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP

c/o WindWorks Power Corp.

346 Waverly Street

Ottawa, Ontario

K2P 0W5

Attention: Dr. Ingo Stuckmann

Reference: Skyway 126 Wind Energy, Design and Operations Report

Dear Dr. Stuckmann,

We are pleased to present a copy of the Design and Operations Report for Skyway 126 Wind Energy

project. This report was prepared to meet the requirements of the Renewable Energy Approval

regulations, O. Reg. 359/09, Section 13. It will be included as part of the Renewable Energy Approval

Application package to be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment for the Skyway 126 Wind

Energy project.

This report includes the following appendices:

Site Plan,

Cultural Heritage Assessment Report,

Shadow Flicker Report,

Radar and Radio Communications Impact Assessment Report,

Natural Heritage Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan, and

Archaeological Assessment Report.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

M. K. INCE AND ASSOCIATES LTD.

Martin Ince, P. Eng.

Skyway 126 Wind Energy Design and Operations Report

M.K. Ince and Associates Ltd. i June 14, 2013

Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 REGULATORY AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................... 1

2 SITE PLAN ...................................................................................................................................................... 5

2.1 NATURAL HERITAGE FEATURES ............................................................................................................................ 6 2.2 CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES............................................................................................ 6 2.3 WATER BODIES................................................................................................................................................. 7

3 FACILITY DESIGN PLAN ................................................................................................................................ 13

3.1 PERMANENT PROJECT STRUCTURES .................................................................................................................... 13 3.1.1 Wind Turbine Technologies ............................................................................................................... 13 3.1.2 Turbine Foundations .......................................................................................................................... 14 3.1.3 Lighting .............................................................................................................................................. 14 3.1.4 Interconnection Facilities ................................................................................................................... 15 3.1.5 Roads ................................................................................................................................................. 16

3.2 TEMPORARY FACILITIES .................................................................................................................................... 16 3.2.1 Crane Pad and Laydown areas .......................................................................................................... 16 3.2.2 Temporary Roads .............................................................................................................................. 16 3.2.3 Temporary Work Facility ................................................................................................................... 16 3.2.4 Temporary Sanitary Facilities ............................................................................................................ 17 3.2.5 Waste Management .......................................................................................................................... 17

3.3 CLEARED AREAS .............................................................................................................................................. 17 3.4 WATER TAKINGS ............................................................................................................................................. 17 3.5 SETBACKS ...................................................................................................................................................... 18

3.5.1 Noise Setbacks ................................................................................................................................... 18 3.5.2 Road and Railway Rights of Way Setbacks ........................................................................................ 22 3.5.3 Property Line Setbacks....................................................................................................................... 22

4 FACILITIES OPERATIONAL PLAN ................................................................................................................... 22

4.1 OPERATION .................................................................................................................................................... 22 4.2 MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................................... 22 4.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ......................................................................................................................... 23 4.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................................................................................................................... 23 4.5 NOISE ........................................................................................................................................................... 23 4.6 WATER TAKING AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................. 24

5 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MONITORING PLAN .......................................................................................... 24

5.1 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MONITORING PLAN (EEMP) .......................................... 24 5.2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................................................ 25

5.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities for Implementation of the EEMP ............................................................. 25 5.3 SUMMARY TABLE ............................................................................................................................................ 27 5.4 PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................................................................................................... 37

5.4.1 Archaeological and Heritage Resources ............................................................................................ 37 5.4.2 Air ...................................................................................................................................................... 39 5.4.3 Public Health and Safety .................................................................................................................... 42 5.4.4 Water Bodies ..................................................................................................................................... 49 5.4.5 Land Use ............................................................................................................................................ 56 5.4.6 Birds ................................................................................................................................................... 61


M.K. Ince and Associates Ltd. ii June 14, 2013

5.4.7 Bats .................................................................................................................................................... 64 5.4.8 Natural Heritage Features and Significant Wildlife Habitat .............................................................. 66

6 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND COMMUNICATIONS PLAN ............................................................................. 76

6.1 STATUS UPDATES ............................................................................................................................................ 76 6.2 EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION ............................................................................................................................... 77 6.3 PROTOCOL FOR RESPONDING TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES ............................................................................................... 77 6.4 CONTACT INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................. 77

7 CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 78

8 QUALIFICATIONS AND LIMITATIONS ........................................................................................................... 79

9 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ 80

List of Tables TABLE 1-1: ONTARIO REGULATION 359/09 DESIGN AND OPERATIONS PLAN REPORT REQUIREMENTS ............................................... 2 TABLE 2-1: COMPONENTS DEPICTED IN THE SITE PLAN .............................................................................................................. 5 TABLE 2-2: NATURAL HERITAGE FEATURES.............................................................................................................................. 6 TABLE 2-3: CULTURAL HERITAGE FEATURES ............................................................................................................................ 7 TABLE 2-4: WATER BODIES SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................... 8 TABLE 3-1: WIND TURBINE SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 13 TABLE 3-2: TURBINE LIGHTING, COORDINATES AND HEIGHTS ................................................................................................... 14 TABLE 3-3: CABLING SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 15 TABLE 3-4: POINT OF RECEPTION DESCRIPTION AND LOCATIONS ............................................................................................... 18 TABLE 3-5: PARTICIPATING RECEPTOR DESCRIPTION AND LOCATIONS ......................................................................................... 21 TABLE 5-1: SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MONITORING PLAN ................................................................................... 27 TABLE 5-2: ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND MITIGATION MEASURES FOR SIGNIFICANT

NATURAL HERITAGE FEATURES ............................................................................................................................................ 67

List of Appendices Appendix I Site Plan Appendix II Cultural Heritage Assessment Report Appendix III Shadow Flicker Report Appendix IV Radar and Radio Communications Impact Assessment Appendix V Natural Heritage Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan Appendix VI Forms Appendix VII Archaeological Assessment Report


M.K. Ince and Associates Ltd. 1 June 14, 2013

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Overview

Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP (the Proponent) proposes to build the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project, a

10 MW Class 4 Wind Energy Generation Facility, on privately-owned agricultural lands within the

Municipality of Grey Highlands near the town of Badjeros. It will consist of five (5) REpower MM92

wind turbines of 2 MW each, located in five (5) proposed locations. The REpower MM92 has a sound

power level of 103.2 dB(A). The project turbines will be bounded to the north by South Line C, to the

east by Grey Road 9, to the South by Grey Road 9, and to the west by Road 57A. In addition, project

cabling will be constructed along South Line C, Road 63, and 4th Concession B Road. A Power Purchase

Agreement (PPA) has been acquired for the project under Ontario’s Feed-In Tariff (FIT) Program.

The Skyway 126 Wind Energy project will provide up to 10 MW of new, renewable electrical generation

capacity and will help the Province of Ontario to address potential future electricity shortfalls. The

promotion of wind energy within the Municipality of Grey Highlands will displace greenhouse gases, air

pollution, and toxic solid waste from traditional energy production methods in the Province of Ontario.

1.2 Regulatory and Reporting Requirements

The Green Energy and Green Economy Act, passed in the Province of Ontario in 2009, mandates a

Renewable Energy Approval (REA) process under the Environmental Protection Act, Ontario Regulation

359/09 for specified classes of renewable energy projects. The Skyway 126 Wind Energy project is

subject to this process, which will evaluate the project’s environmental impacts and propose measures to

mitigate or avoid them. This Design and Operations Report presents a site plan, details of the wind farm

design and an operations plan for the facility. The report also details mitigation measures for any

environmental impacts, how they will be monitored and contingency plans in the event that mitigation

measures fail. The report also includes a plan for managing emergency responses and communications.

The reporting requirements set out by O.Reg 359/09 are summarized with reference to specific sections of

the Design and Operations Report in Table 1-1. This checklist should be used for reference purposes

only and should not replace a full reading of the report.



Table 1-1: Ontario Regulation 359/09 Design and Operations Plan Report Requirements

Required Documentation Requirement Met Location in Report

Set out a site plan of the Project Location at which the renewable energy project will be engaged in, including,

i) One or more maps or diagrams of:

A. All buildings, structures, roads, utility corridors, rights of way and

easements required in respect of the renewable energy generation

facility and situated within 300 metres of the facility,

Yes Site Plan in Appendix I

B. Any ground water and surface water supplies used at the facility, Yes Site Plan in Appendix I

C. Any things from which contaminants are discharged into the air, Yes Site Plan in Appendix I

D. Any works for the collection, transmission, treatment and disposal

of sewage

NA Site Plan in Appendix I , Section

3.2.4

E. Any areas where waste, biomass, source separated organics and

farm material are stored, handled, processed or disposed of,


F. The Project Location in relation to any of the following within 125

metres: the portion of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan

Area that is subject to the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan,

the area of the Niagara Escarpment Plan, the Protected

Countryside, the Lake Simcoe watershed,


G. Any noise receptors or odour receptors that may be negatively

affected by the use or operation of the facility,


ii) A description of each item diagrammed under the subparagraph i, Yes Section 2

iii) One or more maps or diagrams of land contours, surface water drainage

and any of the following, if they have been identified in complying with

this Regulation: properties described in column 1 of the Table to section

19, heritage resources, archaeological resources, water bodies,

significant or provincially significant natural features and any other

natural features identified in the Protected Countryside or in the portion

of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area that is subject to the

Oak Ridges Moraine Plan.

Yes Not within plan areas.

iv) a description, map or diagram of the distance between the base of any

wind turbines and any public road rights of way or railway rights of way

that are within a distance equivalent to the length of any blades of the

wind turbine, plus 10 metres,


v) a description, map or diagram of the distance between the base of any

wind turbines and all boundaries of the parcel of land on which the wind

turbine is constructed, installed or expanded within a distance equivalent





to the height of the wind turbine, excluding the length of any blades, and

vi) a description, map or diagram of the distance between the base of each

wind turbine and the nearest noise receptor.


Set out conceptual plans, specifications and descriptions related to the design of the renewable energy generation facility, including a

description of,

i) Any works for the collection, transmission, treatment and disposal of

sewage, including details of any sediment control features and storm

water management facilities

Yes Section 4.6, Section 3.2.4, Section

3.2.5

ii) Any things from which contaminants are discharged into the air, and Yes Section 3.1.1

iii) Any systems, facilities and equipment for receiving, handling storing and

processing any waste, biomass, source separated

Yes Section 3.2.5

Set out conceptual plans, specifications and descriptions related to the operation of the renewable energy generation facility, including a

description of,

i) In respect to any water takings,

A. A description of the time period and duration of water takings

expected to be associated with the operation of the facility

NA Not applicable

B. A description of the expected water takings, including rates,

amounts and an assessment of the availability of water to meet the

expected demand, and

NA Not applicable

C. An assessment of and documentation showing the potential of the

facility to interfere with existing uses of the water expected to be

taken.

NA Not applicable

ii) A description of the expected quantity of sewage produced and the

expected quality of that sewage at the Project Location and the manner in

which it will be disposed of, including details of any sediment control

features and storm water management features

NA None produced

iii) A description of any expected concentration of air contaminants

discharged from the facility,

Yes Section 3.5.1

iv) In respect of any biomass, source separated organics and farm material at

the facility,

A. The maximum daily quantity that will be accepted

NA None produced

B. The estimated annual average quantity that will be accepted, NA None produced

C. The estimated average time that it will remain at the facility, and NA None produced

D. The estimated average rate at which it will be used, and NA None produced

v) In respect of any waste generated as a result of processes at the Project Yes Section 3.2.5, Section 4.4




Location, the management and disposal of such waste, including

A. The expected types of waste to be generated

B. The estimated maximum daily quantity of waste to be generated,

by type,

Yes Section 3.2.5, Section 4.4

C. Processes for the storage of waste, and Yes Section 3.2.5, Section 4.4

D. Processes for final disposal of waste Yes Section 3.2.5, Section 4.4

Include an environmental effects monitoring plan in respect of an negative environmental effect that may result for negating in the

renewable energy project, setting out,

i) Performance objectives in respect to the negative environmental effects Yes Section 5

ii) Mitigation measures to assist in achieving the performance objectives

mentioned in subparagraph i,

Yes Section 5

iii) A program for monitoring negative environmental effects for the

duration of the time that the project is engaged in, including a

contingency plan to be implemented if any mitigation measures fail.

Yes Section 5

Include a response plan setting out a description of the actions to be taken while engaging in the renewable energy project to inform the

public, aboriginal communities and municipalities, local roads boards and Local Services Boards with respect to the project including,

i) Measures to provide information regarding the activities occurring at the

Project Location, including emergencies

Yes Section 6.2

ii) Means by which persons responsible for engaging in the project may be

contacted, and,

Yes Section 6.4

iii) Means by which correspondence directed to the persons responsible for

engaging in the project will be recorded and addressed.

Yes Section 6.3

If the Project Location is in the Lake Simcoe watershed, a description of whether the project requires alteration of the shore of Lake

Simcoe, the shore of a fresh water estuary of a stream connected to Lake Simcoe or other lakes or any permanent or intermittent stream and,

i) How the project may impact any shoreline, including the ecological

functions of the shoreline, and

NA Not within Lake Simcoe watershed

ii) How the project will be engaged in to,

A. Maintain the natural contour of the shoreline through the

implementation of natural shoreline treatments, such as planting f

natural vegetation and bioengineering, and


B. Use a vegetative riparian area, unless the Project Location is used

for agricultural purposes and will continue to be used for such

purposes.




2 SITE PLAN

The site plan is attached in Appendix I of this document. The site plan includes the components

described in Table 2-1 as required by Table 1-1 of O. Reg 359/09. Further description of each of the

items depicted can be found in the sections indicated in the table.

Table 2-1: Components Depicted in the Site Plan

Component (as described in O.Reg. 359/09) Section for Further Details

All buildings, structures, roads, utility corridors, rights of way and

easements required in respect of the renewable energy generation

facility and situated within 300 metres of the facility,

Section 3.1, Section 3.2

Any ground water and surface water supplies used at the facility, Section 3.4

Any things from which contaminants are discharged into the air, Section 3.1.1

Any works for the collection, transmission, treatment and disposal of

sewage Section 3.2.4

Any areas where waste, biomass, source separated organics and farm

material are stored, handled, processed or disposed of, Section 3.2.5

Any noise receptors or odour receptors that may be negatively

affected by the use or operation of the facility, Section 3.5.1

One or more maps or diagrams of land contours, surface water

drainage and any of the following, if they have been identified in

complying with this Regulation: properties described in column 1 of

the Table to section 19, heritage resources, archaeological resources,

water bodies, significant or provincially significant natural features

and any other natural features identified in the Protected Countryside

or in the portion of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area

that is subject to the Oak Ridges Moraine Plan.

Section 2.1, Section 2.2,

Section 2.3

A description, map or diagram of the distance between the base of

any wind turbines and any public road rights of way or railway rights

of way that are within a distance equivalent to the length of any

blades of the wind turbine, plus 10 metres,

Section 3.5.2


any wind turbines and all boundaries of the parcel of land on which

the wind turbine is constructed, installed or expanded within a

distance equivalent to the height of the wind turbine, excluding the

length of any blades, and

Section 3.5.3


each wind turbine and the nearest noise receptor. Section 3.5.1

It is expected that limited water takings will occur during the construction phase in order to remove water

from foundation excavations, if perched groundwater exists. Further, at potentially all turbine locations

dewatering will be undertaken as needed to remove any accumulated precipitation. No on-site water will

be used at the facility. Additionally, no works for the collection, transmission, treatment and disposal of

sewage are included on the site plan as they will not be installed.



2.1 Natural Heritage Features

The significant natural features listed in Table 2-2 and depicted on the Site Plan were identified as part of

the Natural Heritage Assessment. Table 2-2 outlines the distance of each feature to project components

within 120 m.

Table 2-2: Natural Heritage Features

Feature

ID Feature Location Relative to Project Location

WE02 Wetland 4 m to underground electrical cabling along Road 63.

WE03 Wetland 2 m to underground electrical cabling along 4th Concession B Road.

WE04 Wetland 4 m to underground electrical cabling along Road 63.

WO01 Woodland 10 m, 33 m, 54 m, 46 m and 46 m to T2 bladeswept area, laydown,

turbine, underground electrical cabling and cranepad, respectively.

40 m to both temporary and permanent project road to T2.

WO03 Woodland 4 m to underground electrical cabling along Road 63.

DWCA01 Deer Winter

Congregation

Area

8 m north of underground electrical cabling along 4th Concession B Road.

ABH01 Woodland

Amphibian

Breeding

Habitat

10 m, 33 m, 54 m, 46 m and 46 m to T2 bladeswept area, laydown,


40 m to both temporary and permanent project road to T2.

GSWH Generalized

Significant

Wildlife

Habitat

10 m, 33 m, 56 m, 46 m and 46 m to T2 bladeswept area, laydown,


40 m to both temporary and permanent project road to T2. 0 m to

underground electrical cabling along Road 63. < 1m (~ 0.25 m) to

underground electrical cabling along 4th Concession B Road.

For further information on these items please see the Natural Heritage Assessment Reports (Records

Review Report, Site Investigation Report, and Evaluation of Significance Report) and Environmental

Impact Study Report.

2.2 Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Features

The cultural heritage features listed in Table 2-3 and depicted on the Site Plan were identified as part of

the Cultural Heritage Assessment Report. Table 2-3 outlines the distance of each feature to project

components in the vicinity of the project. No archaeological features were identified on site as part of the

Archaeological Assessment Report.



The Cultural Heritage Assessment Report and the response from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and

Sport (MTCS) are included in Appendix II. The Archaeological Assessment Report and the response

from the MTCS are included in Appendix VII.

Table 2-3: Cultural Heritage Features

Feature ID Feature Location of Relative to Project Location

BHR 1 309167 Centre Line B Approximately 2800 m from Turbine 1



BHR 4 269252 South Line Approximately 600 m from Turbine 1





BHR 9 358091 10th Line Approximately 1400 m from Turbine 5

BHR 10 673164 Road 67A Approximately 2500 m from Turbine 4

BHR 11 673211 Road 67A Approximately 2800 m from Turbine 4

CHL 1 Badjeros Post Office Village Approximately 500 m from Turbine 4

BHR 12 349655 Concession 4 Approximately 7700 m from Turbine 4



CHL 2 McIntyre United Church and Cemetery Approximately 6900 m from Turbine 4




CHL 3 McIntyre Pioneer Cemetery Approximately 6900 m from Turbine 3

BHR 18 633812 Road 63 Approximately 7000 m from Turbine 3

BHR 19 633683 Road 63 Approximately 5800 m from Turbine 3

2.3 Water Bodies

A Records Review and Site Investigation, described in the Water Bodies Assessment Report, were

undertaken to identify water bodies that exist within 120 m of the proposed project infrastructure. All nine

potential water bodies identified during the Records Review were confirmed during the Site Investigation.

These water bodies were carried forward to the Water Bodies Impact Assessment Report. Table 2-4 below

summarizes the findings from the Site Investigation conducted at the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project,

and a description of the features carried forward to the Water Bodies Impact Assessment Report.



Table 2-4: Water Bodies Summary

Unique

Identifier

UTM Coordinates

(NAD83 Zone 17)

Location relative to

proposed infrastructure

Water Bodies Descriptions

Northing Easting

WA01 557138 4901998

WA01 was identified as a

permanent or intermittent

stream within 120 m of the

Project Location, crossing

cabling infrastructure (>0.1

m from Project Location)

adjacent to Road 63.

The water body is an intermittent stream surrounded by riparian deciduous

woodland [WOD according to Ecological Land Classification (ELC; Lee et al.,

1998)]. Property access was not granted for properties on which WA01 is

present within 120 m of the Project Location; however the stream crossing is

present within the road and road allowance, and therefore sufficient data could

be collected from Road 63.

WA01 passes under Road 63 through an existing culvert, and is approximately

0.5 m in width. Stream flow is in an eastward direction. In-stream cover is

approximately 90% and consists of riparian vegetation present within the

stream channel. Riparian vegetation included grasses, forbs, shrubs (willow

and seedling balsam poplar), and trees (white willow, balsam poplar, and red

maple). Undercut banks are not present. Canopy cover is 40% partly open, and

60% open within 120 m of the Project Location. No fish or other aquatic

wildlife was observed. Water chemistry tests could not be conducted due to a

lack of property access.

WA02 556873 4903649


natural or artificial pond

within 120 m of the Project

Location, or more

specifically, 15 m east of

cabling infrastructure

adjacent to Road 63 at its

closest point.

The water body is a pond surrounded by a Mixed Swamp/Swamp Thicket

[SWM/SWT according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)]. The pond is nearly

rectangular in shape, moderately-sized, and is within close proximity to

agricultural property, suggesting that it could be an artificial dugout pond, and

therefore would not qualify as a water body according to REA regulations.

Property access was not granted and the landowner was not consulted with

regards to the pond’s origin. Due to this uncertainty, it will be assumed that the

pond is of natural origin.

WA02 is an isolated pond, however it is possible that water is able to enter the

pond during the spring melt from the adjacent wetland (within approximately

15 m of the pond). An outflow is not present. The pond is absent of biotic

and/or abiotic cover. Substrate is not visible from the roadside. Fish were not

observed, though habitat is possible due to potential inflows from adjacent

swamp. Canopy cover is completely open. Potential pollution sources include



Unique

Identifier

UTM Coordinates

(NAD83 Zone 17)




Northing Easting

runoff from Road 63 and agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests could not be

conducted due to a lack of property access.

WA03 556686 4906850




Location, present 31 m

south of cabling

infrastructure adjacent to 4th

Concession B at its closest

point.

The water body is a pond surrounded by a Mixed Swamp [SWM according to

ELC (Lee et al., 1998)]. The pond is small, and is within close proximity to

agricultural property, suggesting that it could be an artificial dugout pond and

therefore would not qualify as a water body according to REA regulations.

Property access was not granted and the landowner was not consulted with

regards to the pond’s origin. Due to this uncertainty, it will be assumed that the

pond is of natural origin.

WA03 is an isolated pond, however it is likely that water is able to enter the

pond during the spring melt from the adjacent wetland (abuts the pond). An

outflow is not present. Pond is covered (approximately 90%) with floating

vegetation. Substrate is not visible from the roadside. Fish were not observed,

though habitat is possible due to potential inflows from adjacent swamp.

Canopy cover is completely open. Potential pollution sources include runoff

from 4th Concession B and agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests could not

be conducted due to a lack of property access.

WA04 557044 4906912





south of cabling



point.

The pond’s presence was confirmed during the Site Investigation from vantage

points along 4th Concession B relatively distant to the feature, and could not be

observed close to the feature due to the presence of a thicket swamp and tall

hedgerow blocking views. Therefore air photo interpretation was utilized to

analyze the water bodies as an alternative method of study.

The water body is edged by residential Rural Property [CVR_4 according to

ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] on its east side, Swamp Thicket [SWT according to

ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] on its north side and Mixed Swamp [SWM according

to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] on its west and southern side. WA04 is

approximately 400 m length by approximately 240 m in width. It is palustrine,

downstream from a large swamp (with intermittent or permanent inflow) and

upstream from the Mad River via an intermittent or permanent outflow greater

than 120 m from the Project Location. The feature’s large size and topographic



Unique

Identifier

UTM Coordinates

(NAD83 Zone 17)




Northing Easting

position indicate that it is likely the pond is of natural origin. Potential

pollution sources include runoff from 4th Concession B, adjacent rural lawns,

and agricultural fields in the vicinity of the stream. Water chemistry tests could

not be conducted due to a lack of property access.

WA05 557521 4907140

WA05 was identified

during the Records Review

as a permanent stream


Location, crossing cabling

infrastructure (>0.1 m from

Project Location) adjacent

to 4th Concession B Road.

The water body is permanent stream surrounded by Shallow Marsh [MAS

according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)]. Property access was not granted for

property south of 4th Concession B, however property access was granted north

of the road.

The Mad River passes under 4th Concession B through an existing culvert, and

is approximately 10 m in width. Stream flow is in a northward direction. In-

stream cover is approximately 5% and consists of riparian vegetation, small

organic debris, and cobble. Undercut banks are present, comprising

approximately 50% of banks along the stream (indicating vulnerability to

erosion). Substrate consists of 80% cobble, 15% gravel, and 5% silt. Riparian

vegetation includes Red Osier Dogwood, Willow sp., Bur Reed, Yellow Pond

Lily, Water Shield, Speckled Alder, Meadowsweet, and riparian grasses.

Canopy cover is 5% partly open, and 95% open within 120 m of the Project

Location. Fish were observed within the stream channel (approximately 5-10

cm in length, species unknown). Potential pollution sources include runoff

from 4th Concession B and agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests were

performed indicating a pH of 7.5, water temperature of 18.8°C, and

conductivity of 363 µS/cm.

WA06 559144 4907635 WA06 was identified as a



Project Location, crossing

cabling infrastructure (>0.1

m from Project Location)

adjacent to 4th Concession

B Road.

The water body is a permanent stream surrounded by riparian Coniferous

Swamp and Marsh [SWC and MA according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] to the

north of the stream crossing and Mixed Willow Organic Deciduous Thicket

Swamp Type [SWMO2-6 according to Ecological Land Classification (Lee et

al., 1998)] to the south of the stream crossing. Property access was not granted

for property north of 4th Concession B, however property access was granted

south of the road.

WA06 passes under 4th Concession B Road through an existing culvert, and is



Unique

Identifier

UTM Coordinates

(NAD83 Zone 17)




Northing Easting

approximately 2 m in width. Stream flow is in a northward direction, at a

velocity of approximately 0.5 m/s. Undercut banks are not present. In-stream

cover is approximately 90% and consists of small organic debris and

vegetation. Substrate consists of muck (90%) and gravel (10%). Canopy cover

is 50% partly open and 50% open within 120 m of the Project Location. Fish

habitat is possible. Potential pollution sources include runoff from 4th

Concession B and agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests were performed

indicating a pH of 8.0, water temperature of 22°C, conductivity of 308 µS/cm,

and alkalinity of approximately 200 ppm.





south of cabling



point.

The water body is a pond surrounded mostly by Rural Property [CVR_4

according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] with a small portion on the eastern side

adjacent to Coniferous Swamp [SWC according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)].

The pond is rectangular in shape, small, and is within close proximity to

agricultural property, suggesting that it could be an artificial dugout pond, and

therefore would not qualify as a water body according to REA regulations. The

landowner was not consulted with regards to the pond’s origin. Due to this

uncertainty, it will be assumed that the pond is of natural origin.


pond during the spring melt from the adjacent wetland (abuts the pond). The

pond is partially covered (approximately 40%) with floating vegetation. Banks

are not at risk for erosion. Substrate consists of muck (40%) and sand (60%).

Fish were not observed, though habitat is possible due to potential inflows

from adjacent swamp. Canopy cover is completely open. Potential pollution

sources include runoff from 4th Concession B, adjacent rural lawns, and

agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests were performed indicating a pH of

8.0, water temperature of 22°C, conductivity of 138 µS/cm.




Project Location, at no

point coming in contact

The water body is a permanent stream that is surrounded by Mixed Swamp

[SWM according to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)] for sections within 120 m of the

Project Location.

WA08 does not come into contact with project infrastructure, flowing



Unique

Identifier

UTM Coordinates

(NAD83 Zone 17)




Northing Easting

with project infrastructure. northwestward from Hwy. 124 where it crosses beneath the road via a culvert

greater than 120 m from the Project Location. It is approximately 3 m in width

(5 m in width at bank full), and contains pools 8 cm in depth (25 cm at bank

full). In-stream cover is 100%, with small organic debris and dense vegetation.

Substrate consists of muck (100%). Riparian vegetation consists of grasses and

forbs such as Canada Bluejoint, Jewelweed, Joe-Pye Weed, Common

Arrowhead, and trees and shrubs such as Black Ash, Eastern White Cedar, and

Black Ash. Canopy cover is 80% partly open and 20% open for portions of the

stream within 120 m of the Project Location. No fish or other aquatic wildlife

was observed, but the stream could provide suitable habitat for fish. Potential

pollution sources include runoff from agricultural fields in the vicinity of the

stream, sediments/runoff from Hwy. 24 located upstream. Water chemistry

tests were performed indicating a pH of ~8.0, water temperature of 24°C, and

conductivity of 298 µS/cm.





south of cabling


Concession B Road at its

closest point.

The water body is a pond surrounded by Coniferous Swamp [SWC according

to ELC (Lee et al., 1998)]. The pond is almost circular in shape, small, and is

within close proximity to agricultural property, suggesting that it could be an

artificial dugout pond and therefore would not qualify as a water body

according to REA regulations. The landowner was not consulted with regards

to the pond’s origin. Due to this uncertainty, it will be assumed that the pond is

of natural origin.


pond during the spring melt from the adjacent wetland (within 6 m of the

pond’s northern edge). The pond is partially covered (approximately 40%)

with floating and emergent vegetation (water shield, grasses and rushes).

Banks are not at risk for erosion. Substrate consists of muck (30%), gravel

(10%), and sand (60%). Fish were not observed, though habitat is possible due

to potential inflows from adjacent swamp. Canopy cover is completely open.

Potential pollution sources include runoff from 4th Concession B, adjacent rural

lawns, and agricultural fields. Water chemistry tests were performed indicating

a pH of 8.0, water temperature of 20°C, conductivity of 237 µS/cm.



3 FACILITY DESIGN PLAN

The following sections provide technical descriptions of the project components as presented in the site

plan, including the wind turbine, foundations, roads and associated electrical transmission and distribution

components.

3.1 Permanent Project Structures

Skyway 126 Wind Energy project will have a nameplate capacity of 10 MW, consisting of five (5)

REpower MM92 wind turbine generators (constructed at five proposed locations), each rated at 2 MW

capacity, along with ancillary facilities. The location of all structures is noted on the Site Plan (see

Appendix I). Turbine details are provided below in Table 3-1.

The wind turbines will each require a transformer (either pad-mounted or within the turbine if possible) to

increase the voltage of generated electricity from 575 V to 34.5 kV. One substation within the wind

project area will serve as a collection point for the power generated at all turbines and will step up the

voltage to 44 kV. The substation will require an area of approximately 36 m x 32 m within a fenced work

area, which will also be used for construction trailers and equipment laydown.

The collection system, consisting of underground conductors and fibre optic cable, will largely follow

internal access road routes from the turbines to the substation. Connection from the substation will occur

along an 11.4 km 44 kV tapline to the Point of Common Coupling (PCC). At the PCC, the project will

connect to the expanded Hydro One grid at the M2 Feeder on 4th Concession B Road. Interconnection

facilities are described in greater detail in Section 3.1.4.

New access roads will connect the project to the existing road network, and internal roads within the

project area will provide access to each turbine for construction, operation and maintenance. Roads are

described in greater detail in Section 3.1.5.

3.1.1 Wind Turbine Technologies

The wind turbine model to be used at Skyway 126 Wind Energy project is the REpower MM92 turbine.

This turbine has a power rating of 2 MW and has three (3) blades. Each tower will be conical, made of

steel and approximately 4.6 m in diameter at the base. Table 3-1 outlines key technical specifications of

the REpower MM92 turbine; further information about this turbine model is included in the Wind Turbine

Specifications Report. The locations of the proposed turbines are shown in

Table 3-2.

Table 3-1: Wind Turbine Specifications

Specification Information

Make REpower

Model MM92

Name Plate Capacity 2 MW

Hub Height Above Grade 100 m

Rotor Diameter 92.5 m



Specification Information

Rotor Radius 46.25 m

Blade Length 45.2 m

Blade Swept area 6,720 m2

Operational Wind Speeds 3 – 24 m/s

Rotational Speed 7.8 – 15.0 RPM

Tower Diameter 4.6 m (bottom), 3.0 m (top)

Voltage 575 V

Sound Power Level 103.2 dB(A)

Ice detection and de-icing The turbine will be equipped with an ice detection system that

will stop the rotor until the icing drops off. No active de-icing

technology will be used (e.g. heaters).

Maintenance Schedule Quarterly maintenance

3.1.2 Turbine Foundations

At the base of each turbine will be a poured concrete foundation with reinforcing steel bars. The

foundation will contain a mounting ring to which the base of the tower will be attached. Exact

specifications of foundation design will depend on the results of a geotechnical investigation of the

proposed turbine locations. Typically foundations range from a diameter of 15 m to 25 m and are

approximately 2 m to 3 m in depth. Once backfilled, only 5-6 m of the foundation is expected to be

visible from the base of the turbine.

3.1.3 Lighting

While confirmation from Transport Canada is pending, it is expected that 3 of the 5 turbines will be lit for

aeronautical safety. Turbine coordinates and whether they are proposed to be lit or unlit is noted in

Table 3-2. The Department of National Defense (DND) has requested that turbines be lit with

incandescent as well as infrared lighting in order to ensure compatibility with night vision goggles.

Correspondence with the DND is ongoing with respect to this request.

Table 3-2: Turbine Lighting, Coordinates and Heights

Turbine Lighting* Easting

(m)

Northing

(m) Longitude Latitude

Ground

Elevation

(m)

Turbine

Height (m

AGL)

Total

Height

(m ASL)

T1 Yes 556214 4899665 80 17 45.28 W 44 14 52.99 N 524 146.25 670.25

T2 Yes 556263 4899421 80 17 43.17 W 44 14 45.06 N 521 146.25 667.25

T3 No 556746 4899891 80 17 21.21 W 44 15 00.16 N 520 146.25 666.25

T4 Yes 557106 4899922 80 17 04.96 W 44 15 01.06 N 520 146.25 666.25

T5 No 557083 4899692 80 17 06.09 W 44 14 53.62 N 519 146.25 665.25

* Note: Number and configuration of lit vs. unlit turbines is contingent on feedback from Transport

Canada



3.1.4 Interconnection Facilities

The proposed wind project will be connected to the Hydro One electrical distribution grid via turbine pad-

mounted transformers at the base of each turbine which are connected to the collection system and in turn

are connected to the substation. The project will connect to existing HONI M2 Feeder which is connected

to the Stayner Transformer Station (TS) near the town of Stayner.

The pad mount transformers will be located at the base of the wind turbines and will step-up the voltage

from 575 V to 34.5 kV. The transformer design has not been finalised at the time of reporting; however

the footprint dimensions are expected to be approximately 3 m x 3 m. The transformers will not have

acoustic barriers. They will be placed on small concrete pads or within the tower base if possible.

A total of 1.8 km of buried electrical cabling will be used to connect the project to the substation. The

voltage of these collector lines will be 34.5 kV. The routing of the collection system is shown in

Appendix I. The specifications of the cabling used will be finalised upon completion of the detailed

electrical design, however expectations are outlined in Table 3-3. At the three locations where cabling is

required to cross water courses, directional drilling or a similar technology such as punch and bore will be

used. These techniques may also be used where required to avoid existing utilities, tile drainage, etc. At

all other locations trenching (or ploughing) will be used to bury cabling.

Three water bodies (WA01, WA05, and WA06) cross Road 63 and 4th Concession B Road will be crossed

by underground electrical cabling using high pressure directional drilling (HPDD), or similarly

appropriate technology, such as punch and bore.

Table 3-3: Cabling Specifications

Cabling Component Dimensions Notes

Trench for buried cable ~1 m depth x 1 m width

Cable burial depth ~1 m

Water crossing drilling depth ~1 m below stream bed Low enough to prevent scouring

of cable by stream bed.

Electrical cabling conduit ~150 mm diameter

Communication conduit ~32 mm diameter

The substation will include a main transformer to step up the voltage from 34.5kV to 44 kV, to match the

local distribution grid voltage level. The substation will also contain a breaker, disconnect switches,

meters, protection and controls, and communications systems. The substation will require an area of

approximately 36 m x 32 m, which will include a small control building, approximately 3 m x 5 m. A

grounding grid will be buried at the site of the substation. The transformer foundation is designed to also

act as a spill trap for secondary spill containment, filled with aggregate with ~35% interstitial space to

accommodate oil in the event of an accidental oil spill and prevent release into the environment.

Connection to Hydro One’s existing distribution grid will be carried out via an 11.4 km tap line between

the substation and the PCC at the existing 44 kV M2 Feeder on 4th Concession B Road, within the

municipal road allowance.



3.1.5 Roads

Approximately 3.3 km of non-paved gravel surface roads will be constructed to allow access to each

individual wind turbine site. Approximately 2.3 km are permanent roads and 1.0 km are temporary roads

(to be removed at the end of construction). The roads will be 5 m in width and their construction will

reach a depth of 0.5 m consisting of 0.4 m of aggregate with 0.1 m of gravel on the surface. Both

permanent and temporary roads will be constructed with the same specifications. Temporary (1.0 km) and

permanent (2.3 km) project roads, including turning radii, will be developed on privately owned

agricultural lands with three proposed entrances from municipal roads. No active intermittent or

permanent streams are proposed to be crossed by newly constructed roads.

3.2 Temporary Facilities

Temporary facilities for waste disposal, sanitary requirements and indoor work needs will be provided.

Crane pads may also be temporary, as they may be removed following the completion of construction,

depending on landowner wishes. Temporary laydown areas will be located adjacent to each turbine.

Temporary construction roads may also be removed, depending on landowner wishes. Temporary

facilities are described in greater detail below.

3.2.1 Crane Pad and Laydown areas

Crane pads and laydown areas are also required near the base of each turbine. The crane pad will consist

of an area of 25 m x 45 m, which will be 0.5 m deep. The bottom 0.4 m will be filled with aggregate and

the top 0.1 m surface will be gravel. The laydown area will simply be leveled as necessary in a 92 m

diameter area beside the turbine. No aggregate or gravel will be used for the laydown areas, unless

weather conditions dictate otherwise.

Following completion of construction works the crane pads may be removed and restored for agricultural

use, if requested by the landowner.

3.2.2 Temporary Roads

Approximately 1.0 km of project roads will be constructed to provide temporary access to turbines during

the construction phase, and will be removed during site rehabilitation at the conclusion of construction

activities for agricultural production, if requested by the landowner. Permanent project roads will be

constructed along alternate routes to provide access for construction and to the turbines throughout the

project life.

3.2.3 Temporary Work Facility

Office trailers of approximately 3 m x 12 m will be brought onto the site for meetings, crew breaks, and

storage of computers and drawings. The trailer will be removed upon the completion of construction. The

trailer will be located within the substation area.



3.2.4 Temporary Sanitary Facilities

During construction and decommissioning temporary bathroom and washing facilities will be required.

Portable toilets and washing facilities will be brought in by a contractor, emptied, cleaned and resupplied

as necessary. No on-site water will be used for any of the temporary sanitary facilities; all water will be

brought in. The temporary sanitary facilities will be located within the substation area or crane pads as

necessary. Sanitary waste from temporary employee sanitary facilities will be handled by an appropriate

licensed contractor.

3.2.5 Waste Management

Waste materials for the REpower MM92 are limited to oils and solvents which will be replaced during

regular maintenance, and physical parts that must occasionally be replaced. These waste materials will not

be stored on site, but will be brought off-site immediately.

Procedures relating to the management, monitoring, and mitigation measures for petroleum, oils, and

lubricants are contained in the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan (Section 5 of this report).

3.3 Cleared Areas

As project infrastructure will be located almost entirely on agricultural areas, up to 4.8 hectares of

agricultural area will be removed from production. Wooded and hedgerow areas are not expected to be

cleared. Project components of the project have been designed to be located within areas presently

vegetated.

3.4 Water Takings

Based on the findings of a preliminary dewatering assessment, at the foundation excavation locations

temporary water takings of no more than 50,000 L/day will be required during construction. Temporary

water takings will potentially be required only during the construction phase, in order to remove water

from foundation excavations, if perched groundwater is present. Further, at potentially all turbine

locations dewatering will be undertaken as needed to remove any accumulated precipitation.

Dewatering of the foundation excavations will occur through a combination of gravity drainage and/or

sump pumps, and possibly perimeter drainage ditches, depending on the time of year and conditions

encountered. The dewatering discharge will be directed to the ground surface, where it will re-infiltrate or

become surface runoff. Silt and erosion control measures will be employed as necessary, potentially

including a sump pit composed of clear stone and filter fabric surrounding the pump inlet.

Given the distances between the excavation locations and nearby natural features and adjacent users, no

impacts to surface water features or groundwater users are anticipated. This is in part due to the depth and

duration of the excavation, and the soil types present. Furthermore, it is not expected that migration of

contaminants will occur as a result of the dewatering. Flow rates will be monitored using a flow meter on

the dewatering discharge pipe, to ensure the permitted dewatering rate is not exceeded. If gravity drainage

is used for dewatering, a weir will be constructed in the outflow channel and daily flow rates will be

calculated based on daily flow measurements at the weir.



3.5 Setbacks

3.5.1 Noise Setbacks

One-hundred and sixteen (116) noise receptors are located within 2,000 m of the turbines. This includes

three (3) participating receptors associated with Skyway 126 Wind Energy project. A list of all receptors

surrounding the Project was compiled by M. K. Ince and Associates Ltd. using 2012 Ontario Parcel data,

current (2013) Grey County GIS data, satellite and aerial photography, and site visits. Assessed parcel

boundaries were used to add receptors for vacant lots (as opposed to ownership parcels). Vacant lots were

modeled as points at locations consistent with local development patterns (required by the Noise

Guidelines for Wind Farms, Ministry of the Environment, October 2008).

The acoustical characteristics surrounding the project area are consistent with that of a Class 3 Area as

defined by NPC 232 and required by Noise Guidelines for Wind Farms (Ministry of the Environment,

2008). All receptors have been classified as lying in a Class 3 Area.

The turbine Sound Power Level for the REpower MM92, as defined in O. Reg 359/09, is 103.2dB(A).

There are a total of 5 turbines in the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project. Adjacent projects result in

numerous additional turbines being located within 3 km of the noise receptors being considered. Based on

the number of turbines within 3 km of the noise receptors being considered, the sound power level of

those turbines, and the setbacks of the turbines from the receptors, Section 55 of O. Reg 359/09 requires a

noise assessment be performed.

Table 3-4 gives setback distances and coordinates for all noise receptors within 2,000 m of the Skyway

126 Wind Energy project. The nearest non-participating receptor is 559 m from the project location; as

such, an Environmental Noise Impact Assessment has been prepared for this project. This report is

included with the REA Application documents. For some receptors shown in the table, turbines from

adjacent projects may be closer than the distances shown to the Skyway 126 Wind Energy turbines.

All noise receptors within 2,000 m of the proposed turbine locations and the participating receptors are

detailed in Table 3-4 and Table 3-5, respectively.

Table 3-4: Point of Reception Description and Locations

Point of

Reception ID Description

UTM Coordinates (NAD 83) Distance to Nearest

Turbine (m)

Nearest

Turbine Easting Northing

R001 Non-Participating 557140 4901724 1802 T4











Point of



Turbine (m)

Nearest











































Point of



Turbine (m)

Nearest




































V001 Vacant 557624 4898592 1226 T5

V002 Vacant 558988 4899375 1931 T5

V003 Vacant 556581 4898821 679 T2

V004 Vacant 557466 4900747 900 T4

V005 Vacant 557291 4900805 902 T4



Point of



Turbine (m)

Nearest


V006 Vacant 557873 4899203 929 T5

V007 Vacant 557656 4899000 898 T5

V009 Vacant 556541 4898653 817 T2

V010 Vacant 557359 4900892 1002 T4

V011 Vacant 555544 4899454 702 T1

V012 Vacant 555397 4898466 1289 T2

V013 Vacant 555413 4899667 801 T1

V014 Vacant 555378 4899888 865 T1

V015 Vacant 555174 4900000 1093 T1

V016 Vacant 555115 4899899 1124 T1

V017 Vacant 555412 4900166 946 T1

V018 Vacant 555341 4900148 998 T1

V019 Vacant 554674 4900573 1788 T1

V020 Vacant 557122 4901799 1877 T4

V021 Vacant 557383 4900650 779 T4

V022 Vacant 558385 4901050 1705 T4

V023 Vacant 558579 4901102 1887 T4

V024 Vacant 559095 4899608 2014 T4

V026 Vacant 557761 4898528 1347 T5

V027 Vacant 556433 4898674 766 T2

V029 Vacant 557185 4900610 693 T4

V030 Vacant 557180 4898896 802 T5

V033 Vacant 557383 4900675 802 T4

V034 Vacant 557411 4900675 812 T4

V035 Vacant 556744 4897739 1749 T2

V036 Vacant 557347 4900426 559 T4

Table 3-5: Participating Receptor Description and Locations

Description

UTM Coordinates (NAD83) Distance to Nearest

Turbine (m) Nearest Turbine

Easting Northing

P001 556244 4900103 439 T1

P002 556645 4900430 548 T3

P003 557026 4900331 417 T4



3.5.2 Road and Railway Rights of Way Setbacks

All turbines have been sited farther than the blade length (being 46.25 m) plus 10 m from public road and

railway rights of way, as required by the REA regulations. Please see the Site Plan (Appendix I) for a

depiction of the turbines and the locations of the rights of way.

3.5.3 Property Line Setbacks

All turbines have been sited farther than a distance equal to the height of the wind turbine, excluding

blade length from any parcel boundary, unless the adjacent parcel is also participating in the project, as

required by REA regulations. The nearest distance between a turbine and a non-participating property line

is 129 m. Please see the Site Plan (Appendix I) for a detailed depiction of the turbine locations and

property lines.

4 FACILITIES OPERATIONAL PLAN

The operation phase of the project will include the steps outlined below. This phase is expected to be

carried out continuously over the anticipated project life of 20 to 25 years.

4.1 Operation

The Skyway 126 Wind Energy project will be monitored and controlled remotely via computer.

Dedicated supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems will be used to capture real-time

turbine feedback and monitor and control the operation of individual turbines. Operation of the turbine

will stop automatically under extreme weather conditions such as icing or wind speeds above the

turbine’s operational limit. On-site personnel are only required for maintenance activities (Section 4.2).

Data collected using turbine mounted meteorological instruments will provide feedback to operators via

the SCADA system. Discrepancies noted between operational factors (power output, rotational speed,

etc.) and expected levels will be investigated internally. Site visits will be scheduled as necessary.

During operation, the turbine blades will turn at a rate between 7.8 to 15 revolutions per minute. The

turbines will not operate in cases of mechanical breakdown, extreme weather conditions and during

periods of maintenance.

4.2 Maintenance

The wind turbines will be subject to periodic inspection and maintenance, including routine oil changes,

motor maintenance, and lubricant and fluid replacement. To ensure proper operational output and safety

the wind turbines will be maintained by certified technicians according to the schedules recommended by

equipment manufacturers.

In general, each turbine is expected to be serviced quarterly. Maintenance service activities may include

structural inspections, braking system checks, oil and hydraulic fluid analyses, cable connections and



voltage level checks. The electrical system will be maintained annually or in compliance with industry

standards such as the 5 year substation maintenance. These regular maintenance activities will be

performed by a small crew (2-4 people) accessing the site using a pick-up truck. Periodically, major

components of the wind turbines such as blades, gearboxes or generators may require replacement. Major

component replacement will be performed with similar equipment and methods to those used in the

construction phase, including cranes and oversized vehicles for transportation. If crane pads are removed

following construction, they will be reconstructed as necessary for this activity.

In the winter months a contractor will be hired to clear access roads after snow falls. Limited salt and sand

will be applied to roads as necessary.

At the end of the useful life of the wind turbines, typically 20-25 years, the old wind turbines will be

either refurbished or decommissioned. The project site, including roads, will be maintained during the

operations phase of the project. Regular grounds-keeping will be undertaken to ensure access to the site

year-round.

4.3 Environmental Monitoring

Monitoring activities, including post-construction bird and bat mortality monitoring, will be carried out at

the wind project during its operation. These activities are described in the Environmental Effects

Monitoring Plan in Section 5 of this report.

4.4 Waste Management

Waste associated with scheduled maintenance will consist of oils, lubricants and solvents, and soiled rags.

These will be collected, brought off-site and disposed of according to relevant regulations. There will be

no on-site storage of wastes during operation.

Currently, there are programs in place to facilitate the recycling of turbine parts and it is expected that

over the lifetime of the project these programs will be strengthened and expanded. In the event that

refurbishment or recycling is not feasible, scrap turbine parts will be disposed of according to applicable

regulations at the time.

Details of the possible effects of waste as well as procedures for managing, temporarily storing, disposing

of, and monitoring waste can be found in the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan, Section 5 of this

report. Section 5.4.4.1 outlines procedures relating to the management, mitigation measures, and

monitoring for petroleum, oils, and lubricants.

4.5 Noise

During operation the turbines will create noise, largely composed of aerodynamic noise associated with

the passing of air over the rotating blades of the turbine. The noise emission from the turbines and a

description of the nearest receptors are described in Section 3.5.1. A complaints and monitoring system

will be set up as described in Section 6.3. Noise mitigation will also occur through operational

monitoring and maintenance activities, as discussed in Section 4.2, to ensure turbines are operating at

maximum efficiency.



4.6 Water Taking and Stormwater Management

No water taking, sewage management, or biomass equipment processes will occur at the facility during

the operations phase of the project. The only stormwater management during the operations phase of the

project will be related to any ongoing post-construction erosion and sedimentation controls, discussed

further in the EEMP (Section 5).

5 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MONITORING PLAN

The Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan (EEMP) has been developed by M.K. Ince and Associates

Ltd. (MKI) to describe the environmental protection measures required for all activities associated with

the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project and the monitoring protocols necessary to ensure that mitigation

measures are effective and adequate. Please refer to Table 5-1 for a summary of the EEMP. This plan

should be considered a supporting document to the rest of the Design and Operations Report and fulfills

the requirements outlined by O. Reg. 359/09 under the Green Energy Act.

This plan is applicable to all employees of Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP working on any phase of the

project and provides guidance to their contractors and subcontractors on environmentally safe standards

for project activities during construction, operation and environmental monitoring, and decommissioning.

The Skyway 126 Wind Energy project is anticipated to be operational by the end of 2014. Environmental

monitoring procedures will be implemented throughout the construction, operation and decommissioning

phases of the project.

5.1 Purpose and Objectives of the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan (EEMP)

This Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan has been prepared to provide the required protection

measures for all project activities associated with Skyway 126 Wind Energy project.

The purpose of the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan is to:

Ensure that Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP’s commitments to minimizing environmental effects are

met;

Provide a description of the environmental considerations related to the construction, operation

and decommissioning of the project;

Provide concise and clear instructions for implementing mitigation measures for the protection of

environmental resources, and minimizing potential adverse environmental effects;

Provide instructions for ongoing monitoring of the efficacy of mitigation measures, and

contingency plans in the event that they fail;

Ensure that the project operations meet all provincial, federal and municipal requirements; and

Provide a reference document for planning and/or conducting construction, operation,

maintenance or decommissioning activities that may have an impact on the environment.



The Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan is intended to be a supporting document of the REA

application that provides guidelines for the protection of valued ecosystem processes and components

during construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning activities.

5.2 Roles and Responsibilities

5.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities for Implementation of the EEMP

The EEMP document will be maintained by the Project Manager and individual Plan Holders. The

responsibilities for implementation of the plan and monitoring are outlined below.

Project Manager

The Project Manager is an employee of the proponent, Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP, who is the primary

party responsible for all aspects of the Project, including environmental, health and safety performance.

Specific environmental responsibilities of the Project Manager are as follows:

Ensure adequate plans and resources are in place to achieve minimal environmental impacts;

Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, authorizations, permits and protocols;

Review incident reports as they are submitted and advise on the proper course of action to be

taken to deal with unexpected environmental conditions or events;

Ensure ongoing communication with appropriate regulatory agencies and other interested parties

on behalf of the proponent; and

Facilitate compliance with the EEMP as outlined in this document.

Site Supervisor

Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP will designate a Site Supervisor to oversee all operations at the site. The

responsibilities of the Site Supervisor are as follows:

Review and approve EEMP revision requests;

Conduct a review of the EEMP on as needed basis and update as required;

Ensure regulatory authorities review changes of a substantive nature;

Ensure EEMP document control and revisions;

Provide the primary contact with Project Manager, and regulatory authorities with regard to

EEMP implementation and compliance issues; and

Ensure that all construction sub-contractors are aware of and comply with all the requirements of

this document.

Construction Manager

The Construction Manager is defined as the person responsible for day to day coordination of

construction activities on behalf of the contractor retained by Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP, hereafter

referred to as the Contractor. The responsibilities of the Construction Manager are as follows:

Familiarize themselves and their personnel with the EEMP;

Provide training for all current personnel, and future personnel arriving on the site including sub-

contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers, to introduce and explain the EEMP;



Distribute copies of the EEMP to appropriate locations and personnel;

Ensure EEMP revisions are distributed and revision control record updated;

Familiarize themselves and their personnel with the EEMP revisions;

Suggest changes to improve the quality of the EEMP to the Project Manager or Site Supervisor;

Comply with all requirements of the EEMP; and

Ensure personnel and subcontractors comply with EEMP.

In the event that this plan presents a conflict with a requirement, term or condition of relevant regulatory

acts, regulations, permits or control orders, those regulatory requirements will take precedence.

Training Requirements

The Construction Manager will advise all construction personnel (including subcontractors) of the

appropriate measures outlined in the EEMP and ensure that proper training or instruction of individuals is

provided in the following areas:

All personnel will be instructed by the Construction Manager (or designate) in the correct and

sanitary method of garbage disposal in designated disposal locations;

Hazardous materials and POLs (Petroleum, Oils and Lubricants) will be used only by personnel

who are trained and qualified in the handling of these materials, and only in accordance with

manufacturer’s instructions and government regulations. The Workplace Hazardous Materials

Information System (WHMIS) program will be implemented and all employees involved with

hazardous materials will be appropriately trained. WHMIS training is the responsibility of the

Contractor.

All workers will receive a brief environmental orientation from the Construction Manager or

his/her designate prior to initiating work at the site.

Project personnel will be trained in the use of on-site firefighting equipment (e.g. fire

extinguishers) and locations of such equipment will be known to all personnel.

Enforcement and Compliance

The Project Manager will be responsible for day-to-day field monitoring and for ensuring that the EEMP

is implemented and complied with. The Site Supervisor and Construction Manager will liaise with the

Project Manager and assist in ensuring that compliance with the EEMP and other permits is achieved. The

Site Supervisor and Construction Manager have the authority to make recommendations to improve

inadequate environmental measures, or, if need be, to make recommendations to management to have the

work, or a portion of work, suspended.

In circumstances where insufficient environmental protection results in an immediate threat to the

environment, the MOE will be notified and consulted immediately. While awaiting response, interim

measures may be implemented under the supervision of the Site Supervisor. Where danger to the

environment is not an immediate threat, the necessary remedies will be implemented within 48 hours

from receipt of notification of the circumstances. Failure to meet this requirement can result in suspension

of the work, or a portion of the work, through the issuance of an Environmental Suspension Order by the

MOE. After an Environmental Suspension Order has been issued, work may recommence when the

measures are completed to correct the noncompliance.

Specific issues/requests raised by Provincial and Federal regulatory bodies will be discussed with the

Project Manager for consideration of changes to the work, and beneficial environmental effects resulting

from the changes. Additionally, issues raised by such other bodies will be considered for future

incorporation into the EEMP.



5.3 Summary Table

Table 5-1: Summary of Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan

Potential Effects

(Reference Section)

Project Phase Performance

Objectives

Mitigation Measures Monitoring Plan and

Contingency Measures

Impacts to Archaeological

Resources (Section 5.4.1.1).

A Stage 2 Archaeological

Assessment identified no

archaeological resources on site;

however, a low risk remains that

resources may be uncovered or

damaged by equipment during

construction, major maintenance

or decommissioning activities.

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Minimize impacts to

potential

archaeological

resources.

Employees will be briefed on

response procedures if artifacts

are found.

Any finds will be reported to

the MTCS and local

Aboriginal Communities;

work may stop.

Impacts to Cultural Heritage

Resources (Section 5.4.1.2)

Potential impacts to the structural

integrity of several resources were

identified in relation to vibrations

caused by construction activities.

Visual impacts to one cultural

heritage landscape (Badjeros

Union Cemetery) were identified.

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Minimize impacts to

cultural heritage

resources.

If buried electrical cabling will

be within 50 m of identified

heritage resources (including

built heritage resources and

those resources within cultural

heritage landscapes), a pre-

construction assessment will be

undertaken and vibration limits

for construction will be

established. With respect to

visual impacts, an appropriate

visual barrier will be

constructed to minimize visual

impacts on the views from the

Badjeros Union Cemetery in

consultation with the South

Line Cemetery Board and the

A professional engineer will

monitor vibration from

construction activities and

ensure limits are not

exceeded if underground

construction is to occur

within 50 m of the identified

heritage resource.



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



Municipality of Grey

Highlands.

Dust (Section 5.4.2.1)

Construction and maintenance

vehicles will potentially create

dust during project construction,

operation and decommissioning.

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Minimize air quality

impacts during

construction and

operation.

Dust suppression using sprayed

water as necessary.

Public concerns will be

addressed as outlined in

Section 6.3. Additional soil

wetting and restrictions in

speed limits will be enforced

as necessary to limit dust

emissions.

Noise (Section 5.4.2.2)

Construction equipment and

activities produce noise in a

limited nature and duration, above

the levels typical in a rural

agricultural area. Turbine

operation will produce noise,

largely composed of aerodynamic

noise. Local residents may

experience an increase in noise

levels in proximity to the turbines

during turbine operation.

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Minimize noise

impacts during

construction,

maintenance and

decommissioning.

Meet turbine setback

requirements.

Abide by municipal noise

regulations during construction.

Turbines are sited to meet

regulatory setback criteria.

Monitoring and maintenance

of construction equipment;

operational turbine noise

monitoring program

according to MOE

guidelines will be

implemented, including

public complaint response

protocol.

Vehicle Emissions (Section

5.4.2.3)

Vehicular emissions have the

potential to degrade local air

quality over a limited temporal

and spatial scale.

Construction,

Decommissioning

Minimize the

vehicular emission of

greenhouse-gases

and harmful

compounds from the

construction process.

Trips to and from the

construction site will be

minimized to the extent

possible. A traffic management

plan will be developed, as

described in Construction Plan

Report.

All construction vehicles

will be maintained in proper

working order as required.

Fires (Section 5.4.3.1)

Fires could result in terrestrial

Construction,

Operation,

To prevent fires

resulting from

project activities, and

Training for all persons on site;

fire prevention protocol will be

Emergency response plan,

including notification, fire

control, and extinguishing,



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



habitat alteration, and wildlife

mortality. Fire-fighting chemicals

and spilled materials could enter

aquatic habitat and adversely

affect biota and habitat. Fires

could adversely affect air quality

and could pose risks to human

health and safety.

Decommissioning to safely contain,

manage and

extinguish any fires

in the Project

Location regardless

of origin.

put in place. will implemented.

Construction Danger (Section

5.4.3.2)

General risks that members of the

general public could be injured if

they were enter the site, due to the

presence of heavy machinery and

construction equipment.

Construction may present a

hazard to low flying aircraft.

Construction Minimize the risk of

injuries to the

general public during

the construction

phase and during

major maintenance.

Signage will be put in place

warning of danger; NAV

Canada will be notified of

construction.

Project employees will

monitor construction

perimeter and halt work as

necessary.

Ice Throw (Section 5.4.3.3)

Blade ice on a rotating turbine can

be thrown and present a hazard to

the public.

Operation Ensure that the

project is operated in

a manner that

minimizes the risk of

ice throw.

Turbine ice detection

technology.

Automatic shut-down of

wind turbines when ice

detected on blades. Remote

notification of icing events

for O&M staff.

Blade Failure (Section 5.4.3.4)

The turbines are at a very low risk

of experiencing blade failure

which could result in blade throw.



a manner that

minimizes the risk of

blade throw.

Turbine designed for 20-year

service life and certified for

specific wind conditions.

Site suitability analysis

conducted by the manufacturer.

Regular maintenance and

upkeep.

The SCADA system will

remotely alert turbine

operators in the event of

mechanical failures.

Notifications of emergency

personnel will be

undertaken.



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



Aeronautical Safety (Section

5.4.3.5)

The maximum height of the

turbines is 146.25 metres AGL.

As such they may present a

hazard to low-flying aircraft.



a manner that does

not pose risks to

aeronautical

navigation.

Lighting will be installed on

turbines as required by

Transport Canada.

Remote notifications of

failure of lighting; NAV

Canada will be notified as

necessary.

Shadow Flicker (Section 5.4.3.6)

Flickering frequencies between

2.5 and 20 Hz (cycles per second)

can cause annoyance (Burton et

al., 2001). The expected shadow

flicker over the course of a year is

16 hours and 24 minutes at the

most impacted receptor.

Harding et al. (2008) and Smedley

et al. (2010) report that there is a

possible risk of seizures in 1.7

people in 100,000 when they

encounter spin speeds greater than

3 Hz (60 RPM).The maximum

shadow flicker frequency is 0.75

Hz (well below the 2.5-3.0 Hz

threshold).

Shadow flicker from the Project is

not expected to cause adverse

health effects due to the low

frequency of the flicker. Nuisance

impacts are expected to be

minimal.

Operation To minimize

nuisance impacts

from shadow flicker

to the fullest extent

possible.

Turbines are sited in a location

distant from nearby receptors.

Shadow flicker study

completed to ensure shadow

flicker frequency and duration

is below acceptable levels.


addressed as they arise, as

described in Section 6.

Human Health (Section 5.4.3.7) Operation Minimize risks to Abide by all regulated setbacks. Public concerns will be




Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



A number of health and medical

agencies agree that when sited

properly, wind turbines are not

causally related to adverse effects.

In Ontario, properly sited means

wind turbines cannot be closer

than 550m from non-participating

receptors and cannot be louder

than 40 dBA at non-participating

receptors. No net effects from

impacts to human health are

anticipated.

human health. described in Section 6.

Electric and Magnetic Fields

(Section 5.4.3.8)

On a daily basis people around the

world are exposed to ELF EMF as

a result of using electricity. There

is no conclusive evidence of any

harm caused by exposure at levels

found in Canadian homes and

schools, including those located

just outside the boundaries of

power line corridors (Health

Canada, 2012).

Operation Minimize public

health and safety risk

due to electric and

magnetic fields.

The substation will be fenced to

restrict access to the facility.



described in Section 6.

Spills and Leaks (Section

5.4.4.1)

The potential exists for the

uncontrolled release of petroleum,

oils and lubricants (POLs) due to

accidental spillage or leakages.

This could lead to adverse effects

on terrestrial and aquatic habitat

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Prevent or contain all

leaks and spills from

POLs

Storage, fuelling and disposal

protocols will be followed.

Emergency spill response

will be followed; MOE

Spills Action Centre will be

called as necessary.



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



and species, on soil and

groundwater quality, and on

human health and safety.

Impacts due to Erosion and

Sedimentation (Section 5.4.4.2)

Clearing, grading, excavating and

potential soil and root compaction

during construction, major

maintenance activities and

decommissioning may increase

erosion and concomitant impacts

to nearby wetlands and water

bodies, including reduced water

quality, sedimentation, and

impacts to aquatic organisms and

habitat.

Construction,

Decommissioning

To ensure erosion

control measures

employed during

construction and

decommissioning are

effective at the time

of major works and

remain effective until

permanent

restorative measures

effectively eliminate

impacts due to

erosion and

sedimentation.

Erosion control measures will

be installed everywhere

grading, excavation, drilling,

soil stockpiling or vegetation

clearing is to occur within 120

m of water bodies, wetlands,

and woodlands.

Capture and removal of

captured sediment;

inspection for structural

integrity after major

precipitation events; post-

construction surveys;

repairs, reseeding and

replanting as required.

A post-construction erosion

control survey will be

undertaken to evaluate long-

term control measures.

Impacts to Fish and Fish

Habitat (Section 5.4.4.3)

Negative impacts to fish and fish

habitat are possible from water

crossing construction; spills and

leaks; riparian vegetation

disturbance; and

geomorphological change.

Construction To avoid any

harmful alteration,

disruption or

destruction (HADD)

of fish habitat.

Follow DFO Operational

Statements for all construction

works in or near water bodies;

where not possible, approval

from DFO will be sought on

designs.

Monitoring for frac-out

specified in DFO

Operational Statements;

monitoring of pits to ensure

lubricants are contained;

monitoring to ensure no

entry into riparian zone;

other monitoring of erosion

control measures as

specified elsewhere.

Impacts as a Result of Frac-Out

(Section 5.4.4.4)

Directional drilling (or a similar

technology such as punch and

Construction Minimise the risk of

a frac-out occurring,

and be prepared to

react appropriately to

contain the damage if


Statement for High-Pressure

Directional Drilling (or punch

and bore as applicable).


Statement for High-Pressure

Directional Drilling (or

punch and bore as



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



bore) will be used to cross cabling

under three water courses to

minimise the impacts on these

features. A frac-out – excessive

drilling pressure resulting in

drilling mud propagating towards

the surface – can alter water

quality.

one does occur. applicable).

Impacts from Products for

Snow Removal (Section 5.4.4.5)

The excessive use of salt and sand

for site maintenance can cause

saline and sediment-laden runoff

into watercourses and may cause

blockages in drainage structures.

Operation Minimize the use of

de-icing salts and

sand.

Salt and sand use will be used

only as required after

ploughing.

None proposed.

Traffic (Section 5.4.5.1)

The effects of increased road

traffic during project construction

and decommissioning are

expected to be minor and short

lived. Nearby roads that may

experience increased traffic levels

include Highway124, and Grey

Road 9

Construction,

Decommissioning

Minimize

disturbance to local

residents from traffic

issues.

The number of trips needed to

bring equipment to site will be

minimized as much as possible.

Permits for oversized vehicles

will be obtained from the

Ministry of Transportation,

Grey County and the

Municipality of Grey Highlands

as necessary.

In the event that the

proposed transportation

routes are inconveniencing

local residents and alternate

routes are available and

practical these will be

considered.

Impacts due to Change of Land

Use (Section 5.4.5.2)

Project infrastructure will be

located entirely on agricultural

areas. Several hectares (4.8 ha) of

agricultural area will be removed

from production. Woodland or

Construction,

Operation

Minimize direct and

indirect impacts of

the land use changes.

Project infrastructure has been

located to minimize vegetation

clearing as much as possible;

amount of agricultural area

removed from production by

the project has been minimized

to the extent possible; where

Any planned works within

vegetated areas will be

clearly marked and

monitored daily to ensure

that no work occurs outside

the marked area.



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



hedgerow area is not expected to

be cleared.

possible, new roads follow

tracks previously used in

farming activities; crane pads

may be returned to agricultural

use immediately following

construction, if requested by the

landowners.

Waste (Section 5.4.5.3)

Solid waste, if not properly

controlled and disposed, can be

unsightly and cause human safety

and health concerns. Uncontrolled

hazardous waste can contaminate

soils, surface- and groundwater,

and can be toxic to local

vegetation, fish and wildlife, if

ingested in sufficient quantities.

Construction,

Operation,

Decommissioning

Minimize waste

generated on site as

much as possible.

Designated and controlled

temporary on-site storage;

waste handled in accordance

with provincial and federal

requirements; containment

facilities at least 120 m from

natural features; waste on site

will be separated for reuse and

recycling as much as possible.

Waste containers during

construction and

decommissioning will be

checked daily to ensure that

all waste is property

contained. Emergency spill

response will be followed;

MOE Spills Action Centre

will be called as necessary.

Telecommunications (Section

5.4.5.4)

Wind turbines have the potential

to interfere with radio

communication signals.

Operation Ensure siting of wind

turbines minimizes

impacts to

telecommunications

systems.

Desktop research and

consultation with relevant

stakeholders that have

infrastructure within specified

consultation zones was

undertaken to avoid or mitigate

potential effects to radio

communication systems.

Potential impacts to analog

and digital broadcast

television reception are

possible; the Proponent will

explore potential

troubleshooting in the event

of complaints.

Visual Landscape (Section

5.4.5.5)

The wind farm may have either a

positive or negative effect on the

local landscape, depending on the

observer.

Operation The wind turbines

will be visible to

local residents

however

disturbances related

to lighting of

Lighting will be designed to

ensure the minimal number of

turbines are lit according to

Transport Canada guidelines;

lights will be made to blink in

unison at night to minimize

None proposed.



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



turbines will be

minimized as much

as possible.

light pollution.

Bird Mortality (Section 5.4.6.1)

Wind turbines present a risk of

collision mortality risk to birds.

Operation Ensure bird

mortalities are kept

below MNR

requirements.

Bird studies were conducted as

part of the Natural Heritage

Assessment to reduce or avoid

project impacts. Project

infrastructure has been sited

beyond 120 m of any

significant bird habitat.

Post-construction mortality

surveys will be conducted as

per the EEMP; mitigation

measures will be considered

in consultation with the

MOE and MNR in the event

mortality surpasses MNR

thresholds.

Bird Disturbance (Section

5.4.6.2)

Breeding behaviour has the

potential to be impacted.

Avoidance of the wind farm may

result in habitat fragmentation for

some species. Effects of

construction on resident bird

species is expected to be

temporally and spatially limited,

and reversible in nature.

Construction and

Decommissioning

Minimize

behavioural

disturbance to birds.

Turbines have been sited away

from potential significant bird

habitat.

Construction activities will be

restricted to the proposed areas.

Wooded and hedgerow area is

not expected to be cleared. If

necessary, tree-clearing will be

restricted between May and

July (breeding season).

No post-construction

behavioural monitoring or

contingency plans are

proposed; if tree-clearing

during breeding season is

unavoidable then a trained

biologist will search the area

before clearing begins to

ensure that no bird nests are

present in any work areas.

Bird Habitat Loss (Section

5.4.6.3)

Clearing of vegetation will reduce

available habitat for birds.

Construction Minimize loss of

habitat and avoid

destruction of active

nests.



necessary, tree-clearing will be

restricted between May and

July (breeding season).

If tree-clearing during

breeding season is

unavoidable then a trained

biologist will search the area

before clearing begins to

ensure that no bird nests are

present in any work areas.

Bat Mortality (Section 5.4.7.1) Operation Ensure bat Bat studies were conducted as Post-construction mortality



Potential Effects

(Reference Section)


Objectives



Wind turbines present a risk for

bat mortality, which may occur as

a result of direct collision or

barotrauma – internal injuries

caused by rapid pressure

reductions undetected by

echolocation.

mortalities are kept

below MNR

requirements.

part of the Natural Heritage

Assessment to reduce or avoid

project impacts. Project

infrastructure has been sited

beyond 120 m of any

significant bird habitat.

surveys will be conducted as

per the EEMP; mitigation

measures will be considered

in consultation with the

MOE and MNR in the event

mortality surpasses MNR

thresholds.

Bat Disturbance (Section

5.4.7.2)

It is possible that bats inhabit

areas of the project that were not

considered significant for

breeding or hibernating. Wind

farm construction has the

potential to affect these local

individuals.

Construction and

Decommissioning

Minimize

behavioural

disturbance to bats.

Construction activities will be

restricted to the proposed areas;

use of construction lighting will

be kept to a minimum;

aeronautical lighting will be

kept to the minimum required

by Transport Canada;

construction will not be

undertaken near the habitat

between May and July.

Pre-construction behavioural

monitoring will be

undertaken to confirm

significance of habitat. If

found significant, three years

of post-construction

behavioural monitoring will

be undertaken.

Bat Habitat Loss (Section

5.4.7.3)

Clearing of woodlands during the

construction phase may remove

potential bat habitat.

Construction Minimize the loss of

bat habitat.



necessary, cleared areas will be

minimized to the extent

possible.

No monitoring or

contingency measures are

proposed.



5.4 Project Environmental Impacts

5.4.1 Archaeological and Heritage Resources

A Stage 1 and 2 Archaeological Assessment for the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project, contained within

contained within Part of Lots 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, & 60 Concession 3 S.D.R (Geographic Township of

Osprey), Town of Badjeros, County of Grey, was undertaken to identify and assess archeological

resources potentially affected by the proposed project.

The Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment used literature and data reviews, including the Ontario Ministry

of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS) Archaeological Sites Database, to determine that there was

potential for archaeological resources to exist on the site. The Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment

undertook field surveys and identified no archaeological resources on site. The assessments concluded

that no further study is required. The MTCS reviewed the findings and were satisfied with the

conclusions. The Archaeological Assessment Report and MTCS acceptance letter can be found in

Appendix VII. Note that since this report was produced, T6 has been removed from the project. Further,

Substation 1 (S1) and Substation (S3) have also been removed. Thus, considerations in the Assessment

regarding Lot 60 Concession 3 S.D.R. are no longer relevant to the project. This change does not affect

the conclusions of the Archaeological Assessment Report. A Cultural Heritage Assessment Report was

conducted in compliance with O.Reg 9/06 to identify and assess cultural heritage resources and

landscapes potentially affected by the proposed project. The study identified 19 built heritage resources

(BHR). Three cultural heritage landscapes (CHL) were identified. Several resources were identified as

having the potential to be impacted by sub-grade construction activities conducted within 50 m. The study

recommended the maximum acceptable vibration levels be determined for BHRs including resources

within CHLs prior to construction. It also recommended vibration levels be monitored throughout the

construction process by a qualified engineer to ensure these levels are not exceeded. These mitigation

measures will be undertaken as recommended. The study further recommended that an appropriate visual

barrier be constructed to minimize visual impacts on the views from the Badjeros Union Cemetery, in

consultation with the South Line Cemetery Board and the Municipality of Grey Highlands. Finally, as a

general recommendation, the study suggested that transportation of heavy equipment through the villages

of McIntyre and Badjeros be avoided to the extent practicable. No other negative project related impacts

were identified. The MTCS was satisfied with the conclusions. The Cultural Heritage Assessment Report

and the response from the MTCS can be found in Appendix II of the Design and Operations Report.

5.4.1.1 Impacts to Archaeological Resources

Potential Effects

Where the Stage 2 assessment identified no archaeological resources on-site, it remains possible that

archaeological resources may be uncovered during construction or might be damaged by equipment or

construction activities. The risk of such damage is considered very low since no archeological resources

were identified within the project area.

Objectives

Minimize impacts to potential archaeological resources.



Mitigation Measures

The Stage 2 assessment, aimed at identifying on-site archaeological resources for development to avoid,

did not identify any resources. No additional mitigation measures are proposed at this time.

Monitoring Plan and Contingency Measures

A contingency plan and associated measures have been developed for unexpected discoveries. Project

employees will be briefed on how to respond in the event that archaeological artifacts reveal themselves

during construction. If artifacts are encountered during construction, the work in the area will cease and

the MTCS and local Aboriginal Communities will be notified immediately. In the event human remains

are uncovered, the MTCS and the Registrar or Deputy Registrar of the Cemeteries Regulation Unit of the

Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations will be contacted.

Net Effects

The Stage 1 and Stage 2 Archaeological Assessments did not identify any archaeological resources

contained within the Project Location. The MTCS approved the Report’s conclusion that no further

assessment was necessary. Contingency measures have been developed to deal with the unlikely

discovery of on-site archaeological artifacts. The preventative measures to date and accompanying

responsive measures serve to identify and preserve artifacts, if found. Therefore, no net effects from

impacts to archaeological features are anticipated.

5.4.1.2 Impacts to Cultural Heritage Resources

Potential Effects

According to the MTCS there are several ways in which new development can potentially impact heritage

resources. Among these potential identified impacts, wind turbines can potentially create shadows that

alter the appearance of heritage resources; change the surrounding environment or context of a heritage

site; or obstruct significant views. Vibrations associated with construction work have the potential to

negatively affect the structural integrity of the resources.

Potential impacts to the structural integrity of several resources and one cultural heritage landscape were

identified in relation to vibrations caused by construction activities.

Objectives

Minimize impacts to cultural heritage resources.

Mitigation Measures

Potential negative impacts to the structural integrity of seven properties have been identified in relation to

construction activities (269377 South Line C, BHR 5; 349427 4th Concession B Road, BHR 15; 349423

4th Concession B Road, BHR 16; 349422 4

th Concession B Road, BHR 17; 633683 Road 63, BHR 19;

Village of Badjeros Post Office, CHL 1; and McIntyre Church and Cemetery, CHL 2).

It is important to note that a number of potential BHRs have been grouped under the CHL 1. According to

the Ministry of Culture, a landscape involves a grouping(s) of individual heritage features such as

structures, spaces, archaeological sites and natural elements, which together form a significant type of

heritage form, distinctive from that of its constituent elements or parts.



The mitigation measures for the BHRs and CHLs will be the same. It was recommended that any below-

grade construction of Project activities be prohibited within a 50 m buffer zone of the heritage resources.

Alternative mitigation measures include re-routing the cabling outside the 50 m buffer of the identified

resource, or building overhead cabling to minimize vibrations. In the event that this is not feasible due to

other project constraints, it was recommended that the maximum acceptable vibration levels be

determined prior to construction and monitored throughout the construction process by a qualified

engineer to ensure these levels are not exceeded.

Potential visual impacts to the Badjeros Union Cemetery have been identified in relation to project

operation. It was recommended that the proponent work with the South Line Cemetery Board and the

Municipality of Grey Highlands to install an appropriate visual barrier around the Badjeros Union

Cemetery to protect views from within the cemetery (e.g., fencing, shrubbery or trees). The Cultural

Heritage Assessment Report and the response from the MTCS are included in Appendix II.


If below-grade construction works are to be undertaken within 50 m of the potentially impacted building,

a professional engineer will be present to ensure that maximum vibration levels are not exceeded. If levels

are exceeded work will immediately be ceased and alternate equipment or methods will be used to ensure

that the remaining works can be completed without exceeding vibration limits. If members of the public

have any concerns in this regard communication as described in Section 6.3 will be undertaken.

Net Effects

The Cultural Heritage Assessment Report was undertaken and identified construction activities have the

potential to negatively affect the structural integrity of seven properties and one cultural heritage

landscape. The mitigation measures recommended will be followed during the construction phase.

Therefore, no net effects from impacts to cultural heritage features are anticipated.

5.4.2 Air

Local air quality is presently impacted by limited vehicular emissions, and dust and noise from existing

farming operations. Additional dust, noise, and vehicular emissions during the construction process and

during project operations and decommissioning will further impact local air quality. Potential effects,

mitigation measures, and the net effects of construction, operations and decommissioning activities to this

feature are described below.

5.4.2.1 Dust

Potential Effects

Construction and maintenance vehicles will potentially create dust during project construction and

operation.

Objectives

Minimize air quality impacts during construction and operation.



Mitigation Measures

Dust suppression including wetting gravel or topsoil piles, limiting vehicle speeds on gravel or dirt roads,

and project scheduling will mitigate the amount of dust created and its impact on local residents and

businesses. When required, water trucks will be hired to spray gravel and topsoil piles to suppress dust

during project construction. No on-site water will be used for dust control. Furthermore, the proponent

will monitor concerns raised by the public regarding dust.


The proponent will monitor concerns raised by the public regarding dust and noise. Additional soil

wetting and restrictions in speed limits will be enforced as necessary to limit dust emissions.

Net Effects

Minor dust creation will likely occur in limited geographical and temporal contexts. Dust suppression

methods and project scheduling will mitigate the creation of dust and its associated impacts. Therefore, no

net effects from the impact of dust creation are anticipated.

5.4.2.2 Noise

Potential Effects

Construction equipment and activities produce noise above the levels typical in a rural agricultural area.

Nearby residents are not expected to be affected by noise during construction, maintenance and

decommissioning activities due to the limited nature and duration of these activities.

During operation the turbines will create noise, largely composed of aerodynamic noise associated with

the passing of air over the rotating blades of the turbine. Local residents may experience an increase in

noise levels in proximity to the turbines during turbine operation.

Objectives

Minimize noise impacts during construction, maintenance and decommissioning.

Ensure noise levels due to wind turbine operation are below 40 dB(A) at all noise receptors.

Mitigation Measures

To mitigate noise disturbance, all construction activities will adhere to the Municipality of Grey

Highlands noise curfew as per bylaw 2004-13. As such, construction activities involving the operation of

machinery or mechanical equipment will not be undertaken outside the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on

any given day to minimize disruption to local residents and businesses. Turbine erection equipment may

however be operated during day and night. In cases of urgent necessity, authorization to work outside

typical hours may be sought from the Municipality.

The noise emissions from the turbines and a description of the nearest receptors are described in Section

3.5.1. Based on the number of turbines within 3 km of the noise receptors, the sound power level of those

turbines, and the setbacks of the turbines from the receptors, Section 55 of O. Reg 359/09 requires a noise

assessment be performed. An Environmental Noise Impact Assessment has been prepared for this project.

This report is included with the REA Application documents. The report concludes that all noise levels at



points of reception in the vicinity of the Skyway 126 Wind Energy are predicted to not exceed the most

restrictive MOE noise level limit of 40 dB(A).

A complaints and monitoring system for the construction phase will function as described in Section 5 of

the Construction Plan Report. Post-construction noise monitoring will ensure turbines do not exceed 40

dB(A) at any noise receptor.


Construction equipment will be monitored for proper functioning by the operators. Any noise beyond

typical operating limits will be addressed through prompt repairs or replacement of equipment until any

problems can be remedied. Any complaints arising from the public will be dealt with promptly.

An operation-phase noise monitoring program will be established to ensure that noise levels do not

exceed acceptable limits. This monitoring program will consist of the following components:

A program which provides local residents with the means and opportunity to file a noise

complaint with the wind project operator.

An operator whose responsibility it will be to record noise complaints received and respond to

complaints within a reasonable period of time.

The exact details of any post-construction monitoring will be finalized in cooperation with the MOE.

Noise complaints received by the project proponent will be provided to the MOE. A protocol for

responding to noise and other complaints will be developed in accordance with the guidelines proposed in

Section 6.3.

Net Effects

Nearby residents are not expected to be seriously affected by noise during construction, maintenance and

decommissioning activities due to the limited nature and duration of these activities. During operation the

turbines will create noise, and local residents may experience an increase in noise levels in proximity to

the turbines during turbine operation. An operation-phase noise monitoring program according to MOE

requirements will be established to ensure that noise levels do not exceed acceptable limits. Therefore, net

effects are anticipated to be limited.

5.4.2.3 Vehicular Emissions

Potential Effects

Vehicular emissions have the potential to degrade local air quality. Emissions will occur over a limited

temporal and spatial scale.

Objectives

Minimize the vehicular emission of greenhouse-gases and harmful compounds from the construction

process.

Mitigation Measures

To minimize emissions, construction activities will occur in as efficient a manner as possible. Trips to and

from the construction site will be minimized to the extent possible. All construction vehicles will be



maintained in proper working order as required. A traffic management plan will be developed, as

described in Section 5 of the Construction Plan Report.

Net Effects

Although temporally limited, vehicular emissions may contribute to a degradation of local air quality

during construction and operational maintenance.

5.4.3 Public Health and Safety

Public Health and Safety may be affected as a result of construction and decommissioning activities and

the operation of the project. Potential effects could arise as a result of fires, construction dangers, ice

throw, blade failure, aeronautical dangers, shadow flicker, human health issues, or from electric and

magnetic fields. These impacts may occur during construction, operations and decommissioning phases.

Potential effects, mitigation measures, and the net effects of construction, operations and

decommissioning activities on Public Health and Safety are described below.

5.4.3.1 Fires

Potential Effects

Fires could result in terrestrial habitat alteration and potentially in the direct mortality of wildlife. Fire-

fighting chemicals and spilled materials could enter aquatic habitat and adversely affect biota and habitat.

Fires would also adversely affect air quality and could pose risks to human health and safety.

Objectives

To prevent fires resulting from project activities, and to safely contain, manage and extinguish any fires in

the Project Location regardless of origin.

Mitigation Measures

The following measures will be implemented to minimize the potential for causing a fire and the potential

environmental effects in the event of a fire.

Personnel Training

All persons working on the site will be trained in the use of on-site fire-fighting equipment, fire

prevention and response, including emergency services phone numbers (see Section 6) and locations of

on-site fire-fighting equipment.

Prevention:

All flammable waste will be disposed of on a regular basis.

There will be no smoking within 50 m of flammable product storage or usage. Areas for disposal

of smoking material will be clearly posted.

Fire-fighting equipment, sufficient to suit on-site fire hazards, will be maintained in proper

condition and to the manufacturer’s standards. For details on manufacturer’s specifications for

fire safety, please refer to Appendix B of the Wind Turbine Specifications Report.




Upon report of any fire the following will occur:

Notification of nearby personnel will happen immediately and will include:

o Where the fire is located,

o What happened ,

o How many people are injured (if any),

o What type of injuries occurred (if any).

Immediate steps will be taken by on-site personnel to extinguish the fire using appropriate

equipment.

Notification of the Project Manager and Site Supervisor.

In the event that the fire cannot be contained, the local Fire Department will be contacted at

9-1-1.

In case of related medical emergencies, emergency medical assistance will be requested from

9-1-1.

Relevant emergency contact information will be kept at each turbine location, as described in Section 6.

Net Effects

Activities related to the construction and operation of the project could unexpectedly result in a fire.

Preventative measures for fire safety outlined in the contingency plan are design to prevent, control,

extinguish or otherwise respond to fires in such a manner that any impacts due to fires should have no net

effects on Human Health and Safety.

5.4.3.2 Construction Danger

Potential Effects

During periods of construction there is a risk that members of the general public could be injured if they

were to come on site, due to the presence of heavy machinery and construction equipment. Construction

of wind turbines presents a hazard to low flying aircraft.

Objectives

Minimize the risk of injuries to the general public during the construction phase and during major

maintenance.

Mitigation Measures

During construction and decommissioning or during major maintenance, signage will be installed along

roads leading into the construction areas warning of the construction taking place and the associated

danger. At the perimeter of the work areas project employees will prohibit the entrance of members of

the general public into areas where construction work is underway. The Construction Manager will

ensure a clean and safe jobsite at all times. Transport Canada and NAV Canada will be advised of

construction dates in advance of construction and “notices to airmen” (NOTAMs) will be issued advising

of aeronautical obstructions.




Project employees will actively monitor the work areas to monitor for any unauthorized access. If any

members of the public enter areas where there is potential danger work will be stopped as required until

the individual is escorted from the area and it is safe to resume construction.

Net Effects

Construction equipment required on site may pose a hazard for members of the public, if any were to

enter the site. The mitigation measures are designed to prohibit the entrance of members of the general

public into areas where construction work is underway. To ensure aviation safety, relevant agencies will

be advised and NOTAMs will be issued of construction dates in advance. Therefore, no net effects from

construction dangers are anticipated.

5.4.3.3 Ice Throw

Potential Effects

During the winter months in Ontario, ice builds up on stationary structures such as transmission towers,

communications towers and buildings. Similarly, during certain conditions ice can build up on wind

turbine rotor blades. At times ice can fall from the blades to the ground. From a stationary turbine ice fall

is not a public safety concern as the ice falls within a very small distance from the turbine. From a

rotating turbine, blade ice can be thrown and can present a hazard to the public. Ice throw only presents a

hazard during the few days a year that weather conditions lend themselves to ice accretion.

Objectives

Ensure that the project is operated in a manner that minimises the risk of ice throw.

Mitigation Measures

The turbines are equipped with passive ice-shedding equipment. The turbines will monitor for weight

imbalances in the rotor or power curve anomalies and differentials between heated and unheated

anemometers. If the temperature measured by the built-in turbine meteorological equipment falls within

the range when ice build-up is possible, and any of the sensors indicate potential icing, the turbines will

automatically stop. In the event of any shut-down due to icing, a manual re-start will be required. Under

such circumstances local operations staff will ensure all ice has been shed prior to start-up.

Access roads will be signed at the entry road to the turbines to restrict entry (in accordance with

landowner wishes), warn of the potential of ice-shedding, and caution O&M personnel to remain clear of

turbines experiencing icing. The risk of ice throw affecting a non-participating residence is very low. As

the nearest non-participating landowner is located 559 m from the nearest turbine, no additional

mitigations measures are recommended for ice throw.


Turbine operators will be informed remotely of any icing event. Standard operation will resume when

temperatures indicate ice will have melted, or other operational metrics suggest that ice is no longer

present. The decisions to restart will occur with a combination of input from remote turbine operators

monitoring telemetry and local personnel. In the event of any shut-down due to icing, a manual re-start

will be required.



Net Effects

The risk of a public safety effect from ice throw is remote, but will be further reduced through appropriate

monitoring with redundant sensors, mechanical safety measures, and signage. Therefore no net effects

from the impact of ice throw are anticipated.

5.4.3.4 Blade Failure

Potential Effects

The turbines are at a very low risk of experiencing blade failure which could result in blade throw. The

study by Garrad Hassan (2007) entitled Recommendations for Risk Assessment of Ice Throw and Blade

Failure in Ontario cites recent international studies of such events which suggest blade failure events are

very rare. The main causes of blade failure include human interference with control systems, lightning

strike and manufacturing defects. The study demonstrates that the probability of blade failure and blade

loss is very low and the associated safety risks to those outside of the area immediately under the turbine

are very low.

Objectives

Ensure that the project is operated in a manner that minimises the risk of blade throw.

Mitigation Measures

Turbines and designed and certified to operate in specific wind conditions. Turbines are designed for a

20-year service life. The suitability of each project site for a given turbine model is analysed and

confirmed by the turbine manufacturer prior to installation. Regular mechanical maintenance and upkeep

will be performed as required by the manufacturer. Access roads will be signed at the entry road to the

turbines to restrict entry. The risk of blade failure affecting a non-participating residence is very low. As

the nearest non-participating landowner is located 559 m from the nearest turbine, and due to the

intermittent nature of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, no additional mitigations measures are

recommended for blade failure.


The SCADA system will alert turbine operators in the event of any mechanical failure, including blade

failure. Notifications of emergency personnel will be undertaken as necessary.

Net Effects

Given the very low probability of blade failure and blade loss, with an appropriate maintenance schedule

no net effects from blade failure are anticipated.

5.4.3.5 Aeronautical Safety

Potential Effects

The turbines reach a maximum height of 146.25 metres from the base of the tower to the tip of the highest

blade. As such they may present a hazard to low-flying aircraft. The nearest airstrip for which records

were found in MKI’s desktop analysis is located at Collingwood Airport (CNY3), approximately 30 km

northeast of the Project Location. NAV Canada evaluated the proposed project and had no objection to



the project. Communications with NAV Canada remain open and any new information will be addressed

as it arises.

The turbines will be equipped with night-time lighting as required by Transport Canada, to ensure that the

towers are visible by aircraft at night. Lighting will be designed to ensure the minimal number of turbines

is lit according to Transport Canada guidelines (December 2011), requiring only single lighting fixtures

for use during the night. Lights will be made to blink in unison at night to minimize light pollution. Wind

farm lighting is only required every 0.9 kilometres and on boundary turbines, and lighting would be

aimed 5 degrees above the horizon. See Section 3.1.3 for details on the proposed lighting plan presented

to Transport Canada.

Objectives

Ensure that the project is operated in a manner that does not pose risks to aeronautical navigation.

Mitigation Measures

Lighting on Skyway 126 Wind Energy project turbines will comply with Transport Canada regulations.


The SCADA system will monitor the status of lighting systems and alert operators in the event of

aeronautical lighting failure. In the event of lighting failure for any reason, NAV Canada will be alerted

and NOTAMs will be issued to ensure continued aeronautical safety.

Net Effects

As lighting and safety features will be in compliance with Transport Canada regulations, no net effects

from impacts to aeronautical safety are anticipated.

5.4.3.6 Shadow Flicker

Potential Effects

As described in the Shadow Flicker Report (see Appendix III), shadow flicker occurs when the blades

from a wind turbine pass between an observer and the sun. As a wind turbine rotates, the shadow cast by

the blades can cause a “flicker” for an observer. Research indicates that flickering frequencies between

2.5 and 20 Hz (cycles per second) can cause annoyance and may even trigger epileptic problems for a

certain portion of the population (Burton et al., 2001). Harding et al. (2008) and Smedley et al. (2010)

report that there is a possible risk of seizures in 1.7 people in 100,000 when they encounter spin speeds

greater than 3 Hz (60 RPM).

The purpose of the Shadow Flicker Report was to model and analyze expected shadow flicker for 116

residences and vacant lots in the Project Location. Results of the study suggest that:

The maximum worst-case annual SF for any residence is 56 hours 42 minutes, over the course of

127 days.

The anticipated annual SF for the most impacted non-participating residence is 16 hours 24

minutes.

The worst case maximum SF in one day for any residence is 51 minutes

The worst case maximum annual SF days for any residence is 127 days.



The maximum shadow flicker frequency is 0.75 Hz (which is the maximum rotation speed of the

proposed turbines and well below the 2.5 to 3.0 Hz threshold).

As such, shadow flicker from the Project is not expected to cause adverse health effects due to the low

frequency of the flicker.

Objectives

To minimize health and nuisance impacts from shadow flicker to the fullest extent possible.

Mitigation Measures

Based on the spin rates of the turbines proposed for this project, it is expected that no health effects will

require monitoring or contingency measures.

Monitoring and Contingency Measures

If residents have concerns about shadow flicker and nuisance they can contact the proponent through the

complaint resolution protocol described in Section 6.3. Additional contingency measures to address

concerns may include installation of curtains or planting of trees to screen shadows.

Net Effects

Shadow flicker from the Project is not expected to cause adverse health effects due to the low frequency

of the flicker. Nuisance impacts are expected to be minimal. Nevertheless, contingency measures are

available if negative impacts are confirmed. Therefore no net effects are anticipated.

5.4.3.7 Human Health

Potential Effects

Wind power has been harnessed as a source of power around the world. Debate is ongoing with respect to

the relationship between reported health effects and wind turbines, specifically in terms of audible and

inaudible noise. As a result, minimum setback distances have been established world-wide to reduce or

avoid potential complaints from, or potential effects to, people living in proximity to wind turbines

(Knopper and Ollson 2011).

Many studies have been conducted world-wide to examine the relationship between wind turbines and

possible human health effects (e.g., audible/inaudible noise, shadow flicker, electromagnetic fields

(EMF)). A number of health and medical agencies agree that when sited properly, wind turbines are not

causally related to adverse effects (e.g., Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit, 2008; Australian Government,

National Health and Medical Research Council, 2010; Ontario CMOH, 2010; Australian Government,

2011; Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Massachusetts Department

of Public Health (MDPH), 2012). In Ontario, properly sited means wind turbines cannot be closer than

550m from non-participating receptors and cannot be louder than 40 dBA at non-participating receptors.

Objective

Minimize risks to human health.



Mitigation Measures

The Project is fully in compliance with the maximum noise level (40 dBA) from any non-participating

residence and vacant lot as required by the Ontario Ministry of Environment.

Monitoring and Contingency Measures

Residents with concerns about health effects can contact the proponent through the complaint resolution

protocol described in Section 6.3. More specifically, an operation-phase noise monitoring program will

be established to ensure that noise levels do not exceed acceptable limits, as detailed in Section 5.4.2.2.

Science and medical experts around the world will continue to publish findings in this field. The

proponent is committed to keeping informed on the issue of human health.

Net Effects

No net effects from impacts to human health from the project are anticipated.

5.4.3.8 Electric and Magnetic Fields

Power frequency or extremely low frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are invisible lines

of force that you cannot see or feel that surround electrical equipment, power cords, wires that carry

electricity and outdoor power lines. On a daily basis people around the world are exposed to ELF EMF as

a result of using electricity. Power frequency or ELF EMF can come from a number of Project related

components, including transformers (installed either adjacent to or within the base of each turbine tower),

the project substation, the collector lines and existing Hydro One distribution grid.

The relationship between ELF EMF and possible human health is well studied (e.g., NIEHS 2002, WHO

2007). Health Canada (2012) has stated:

“Health Canada does not consider that any precautionary measures are needed regarding

daily exposures to EMFs at ELFs. There is no conclusive evidence of any harm caused by

exposures at levels found in Canadian homes and schools, including those located just

outside the boundaries of power line corridors”.

Potential Effects

Health Canada (2012) has stated:

“There is no conclusive evidence of any harm caused by exposures at levels found in

Canadian homes and schools, including those located just outside the boundaries of power

line corridors”.

Objective

Minimize risks to human health.

Mitigation Measures

The substation will be fenced to restrict access to the facility and typical EMF beyond the fences and

walls built to enclose transformer stations are likely indistinguishable from background levels. The level



of EMF from the substation and nacelles are negligible as it relates to public health compared to daily

exposure levels.

Monitoring and Contingency

Residents with concerns about EMF can contact the proponent through the complaint resolution protocol

described in Section 6.3.

Net Effects

Based on currently-available information, electro-magnetic fields and interference from project related

components are not considered a health concern, and no net effects on human health and safety are

anticipated.

5.4.4 Water Bodies

A Water Bodies Assessment was undertaken to identify water bodies that exist within 120 m of proposed

project infrastructure. The report identified nine water bodies within the defined area and reported that

three water crossings on Road 63 and 4th Concession B Road will be necessary using High Density

Directional Drilling (HPDD) or similar technology. Potential impacts to these water bodies include spills

of chemicals or hazardous materials, erosion and sedimentation, and frac-out during directional drilling,

as well as impacts from salt from snow clearing during operation.

5.4.4.1 Spills and Leaks

Potential Effects

The potential exists for the uncontrolled release of petroleum, oils and lubricants (POLs) due to accidental

spillage or leakages. This could lead to adverse effects on terrestrial and aquatic habitat and species, on

soil and groundwater quality, and on human health and safety.

Objectives

Prevent or contain all leaks and spills from POLs during construction, operation or decommissioning.

Mitigation Measures

The following protection measures are intended to minimize the potential for any petroleum, oil and

lubricants (POLs) spills on soil, vegetation, surface water, and groundwater.

Storage and disposal of POLs:

The transportation of POLs will be conducted in compliance with the Transportation of

Dangerous Goods Act.

There will be no permanent on-site storage of POLs for fueling or vehicle maintenance purposes,

with the exception of small double-walled CSA approved fuel tanks for refuelling equipment and

machinery during the construction period.

Where possible, vehicle maintenance will be performed off site, at a nearby commercial fuelling

station, in order to minimize the amount of lubricants and oils stored on site.



POLs will be stored in compliance with applicable provincial and federal regulations, codes and

guidelines. During maintenance, POLs will be stored within the base of the tower for the duration

of each visit and as such will be well-removed from any water bodies or wetlands. Upon

completion of turbine maintenance activities, all POLs will be removed from the site.

On-site POL storage will be in a ventilated, lockable steel container. The container will be

equipped with galvanized steel drip trays for the collection of spilled substances.

The on-site POL storage container shall be located on level terrain, at least 120 m from any water

body, watercourse or wetland.

Spill decks will be used for transferring products to smaller containers.

Fire extinguishers will be located near POL storage areas.

A spill kit, including absorbent material, will either be stored in the base of the tower or will be

brought to the site during maintenance visits.

POL storage areas will be identified by signs.

Smoking will not be permitted within 50 m of any POL storage area. “No Smoking” signs will be

displayed at all POL storage sites and refuelling areas. On-site signage will indicate the location

of smoking areas.

Equipment Fuelling:

Only equipment that is not easily transported will be refueled on site. All other vehicles and equipment

will be refueled at a commercial fuelling station.

When refuelling equipment, operators will:

o use designated fuelling locations;

o use drip trays;

o use leak free containers and reinforced rip and puncture proof hoses and nozzles;

o be in attendance for the duration of the procedure; and

o seal all storage container outlets except the outlet currently in use.

Fuelling must be done at least 120 m from a wetland, water body or watercourse.

The Contractor will make daily inspections of hydraulic and fuel systems on machinery and leaks

will be repaired immediately. All leaks will be reported to the MOE, Spills Action Centre at

1-800-268-6060.

Servicing of equipment will not be allowed within 120 m of a wetland, watercourse or water

body.

Fuelling attendants will be trained in the requirements under the contingency response plan

below.

POL Waste Disposal

Waste POLs will be stored in a ventilated, lockable steel container. The container will be

equipped with galvanized steel drip trays for the collection of spilled substances.

Waste solvents and oils will be stored separately.

All used oil and petroleum products will be removed as required and disposed in an acceptable

manner in accordance with government regulations, and requirements, including but not limited

to O. Reg 347/09 S. 17.2. Waste oil will be collected separately and offered for recycling or

stored for collection by an appropriate special waste collection and disposal company.

Greasy or oily rags or materials subject to spontaneous combustion will be deposited, and kept, in

an appropriate receptacle. This material will be removed from the work site on a regular basis and

will be disposed in an approved existing waste disposal facility.

POL waste disposal will be the responsibility of the Contractor.



Servicing and Inspections

Regular scheduled inspections of oil and hydraulic systems will be made during the semi-annual

maintenance visits. Any leaks found will be repaired immediately. All leaks will be reported to

the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. As turbine

systems will be monitored remotely by cell phone or satellite communication, technicians will

determine when additional unscheduled inspections are required. These are typically performed

every 2 to 3 months at each turbine.

Equipment will not be serviced within 120 m of a wetland, watercourse, water body, or seepage

area.

Emergency Response

Even with the implementation of the above mitigation measures, there is a possibility of accidents

resulting in the release of hazardous materials into the environment. In the event that a spill occurs, action

will be taken as outlined in the contingency measures below.


If it is safe to do so, the individual who discovers the leak or spill will immediately attempt to stop and

contain the leak or spill.

Any spill or leak must be reported immediately to the Construction or Operations Manager.

The Construction or Operations Manager will immediately report the spill to the Ontario Ministry of

Environment, Spills Action Centre which can be reached at 1-800-268-6060. A Spill Report Form

(provided in Appendix VI) shall be filled out and will include:

A description of the source, including the name of the owner or operator;

The nature, extent, duration and environmental impact of the release;

The cause or suspected cause of the release; and

Any remedial action taken or to be taken to prevent a recurrence of the leak or spill.

The site Contractor will have the full authority to take appropriate action without unnecessary delay. The

Spill Report Form in will be filled out by the Contractor immediately following the discovery of the spill

or leak and forwarded to the Project Manager.

The Contractor will assume the overall responsibility for coordinating the clean-up and maintaining this

contingency plan current and up-to-date. The Contractor will, in consultation with the regulatory

authorities (if warranted):

Deploy on-site personnel to contain the spilled material using a dyke, pit, or absorbent material;

Assess site conditions and environmental impact of various cleanup procedures;

Choose and implement an appropriate cleanup procedure;

Deploy on-site personnel to mobilize pumps and empty drums (or other appropriate storage) to

the spill site;

Dispose of all contaminated debris, cleaning materials, and absorbents by placing in an approved

disposal site.



Spill Cleanup Resource List:

Throughout the operational life of the project, the following resources will be available at an appropriate

location in readiness to respond to accidental releases of fuels and/or hazardous materials:

Absorbent materials (e.g. sorbent pads, Sorb-All, peat moss).

Small equipment such as shovels, rakes, tool kit, sledgehammer, buckets, stakes, tarpaulins, one

empty drum, and protective equipment.

Section 6 of this report contains the contact list for spill response.

Net Effects

Various measures are in place to prevent or contain all leaks and spills from POLs during construction,

operation and decommissioning. The preventative measures are designed for safe storage, use, and waste

disposal of petroleum, oils, and lubricants. Furthermore, mitigation measures through the development of

an emergency response plan will serve to immediately control spills and leaks. No net effects are

anticipated from spills and leaks

5.4.4.2 Impacts due to Erosion and Sedimentation

Potential Effects

Due to the clearing, grading, excavating and potential soil and root compaction during construction, major

maintenance activities and decommissioning, stormwater patterns may change throughout the life of the

project. These changes may increase erosion and concomitant impacts to nearby wetlands and water

bodies, including reduced water quality, sedimentation, and impacts to aquatic organisms and habitat.

Three water crossings by HPDD or a similar technology such as punch and bore will be constructed. The

construction works associated with these crossings have the potential to further contribute to the potential

effects. Impacts specific to the crossings are further discussed in Section 5.4.4.3 and 5.4.4.4.

Objectives

To ensure erosion control measures employed during construction and decommissioning are effective at

the time of major works and remain effective until permanent restorative measures effectively eliminate

impacts due to erosion and sedimentation.

Mitigation Measures

Where grading, excavation, drilling, soil stockpiling or vegetation clearing is to occur within 120 m of

water bodies, siltation fences will be installed in order to prevent movement of sediment toward water

bodies. Where necessary, ditches and catchment areas will be established to supplement the siltation

fences. These ditches will be routed away from nearby water bodies and terminate in locations such that

no sediment will be able to enter water bodies. Areas with temporarily cleared vegetation will have native

plants replanted to permanently effect erosion control. Temporarily stockpiled soil will also be

surrounded with silt fencing in order to further prevent erosion. Upon the completion of backfilling and

the subsequent disposition of excess soil elsewhere within the properties by the property owners (outside

of 120 m from the water bodies), replanting with native vegetation will be undertaken in areas that are not

going to be used for agricultural purposes. For excavation within municipal road easements, following

backfilling reconditioning of the surface will be undertaken in consultation with the municipality; gravel,

asphalt or native plants and grasses will be used as appropriate.



Further risk and mitigation measures related to water crossings by cabling are discussed in Section

5.4.4.3 and Section 5.4.4.4.


Sediment captured through the use of siltation fences and ditches, where necessary, will be captured and

transported by truck 120 m away from aquatic features. During construction silt fences will be inspected

after major precipitation events. Damaged sediment control features will be immediately repaired.

One year after construction a survey will be undertaken to ensure that long-term erosion control measures

have been effective. This will include an inspection of drainage facilities such as ditches, culverts and

water retention areas for structural integrity and any excessive amount of silt collection. Seeded or

replanted areas will be inspected to ensure that re-vegetation measures were successful and re-seeding or

replanting will occur where necessary.

If erosion control measures are found to be less than fully effective during this survey, reseeding or

replanting of problem areas will take place. Should there be residual effects noted during post-

construction monitoring, advice on contingency measures will be sought out and applied.

Net Effects

Short-term (e.g. silt fencing, catchment areas, and geotextiles) and long-term mitigation measures (e.g.

surveying, replanting of native vegetation) are expected to fully mitigate sedimentation and erosion

generated through the construction process. Therefore, no net effects from erosion and sedimentation are

anticipated.

5.4.4.3 Impacts to Fish and Fish Habitat

Potential Effects

Impacts to fish and fish habitat are possible from the activities associated with the construction of water

crossings by cabling. Fish and fish habitat have the potential to be harmed by spills and leaks, and erosion

and sedimentation, or as a result of various construction activities, as discussed in Section 5.4.4.1 and

Section 5.4.4.2. Additional potential impacts specific to the construction of water crossings include

disturbance to riparian vegetation and disturbance of the banks and streambed during the construction

process, all of which could result in disturbance or damage to fish or fish habitat.

Objectives

To avoid any harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) of fish habitat.

Mitigation Measures

Where cabling will cross under water bodies by way of directional drilling, the Department of Fisheries

and Oceans (DFO) Operational Statement for High-Pressure Directional Drilling (HPDD) will be

followed. In the unlikely event that this Operational Statement is not able to be used, approval from the

DFO will be sought on alternative design processes. In the event that a different technology is used, such

as punch and bore, the applicable operational statement will be followed. Measures to be implemented are

described below. The measures listed below are numbered identically to the HPDD Operational

Statement; please refer to the Operational Statement for a comparison between the DFO recommended

measures and how the measures are being implemented as shown below.



1. Existing trails or roads will be used wherever possible as access routes to avoid disturbance to the

riparian vegetation.

2. The drill path will be designed to an appropriate depth below the watercourse to minimize the risk of

frac-out and to a depth to prevent the line from becoming exposed due to natural scouring of the

stream bed. The drill entry and exit points are far enough from the banks of the watercourse to have

minimal impact on these areas. Please see Section 5.4.4.4 for further discussion of impacts from

frac-out and proposed mitigation, monitoring and contingency measures.

3. No riparian vegetation will be removed for cabling water crossings.

4. No machinery will ford watercourses.

5. Machinery will be operated on land above the ordinary high water mark and in a manner that

minimizes disturbance to the banks of the watercourse.

i) Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks.

ii) Machinery will be washed, refueled and serviced and fuel and other materials for the

machinery will be stored away from the water to prevent any deleterious substance from

entering the water.

iii) Emergency spill kits will be kept with equipment in case of fluid leaks or spills from

machinery.

iv) Banks will be restored to original condition if any disturbance occurs.

6. A dugout/settling basin will be constructed at the drilling entry/exit site to contain drilling mud to

prevent sediment and other deleterious substances from entering the watercourse. The drilling mud

will be reclaimed and will not enter any water body.

7. The watercourse will be monitored to observe signs of surface migration (frac-out) of drilling mud

during all phases of construction.


During HPDD the stream bed will be continually monitored for signs of frac-out. Please see Section

5.4.4.4 for further details on mitigation, monitoring and contingency measures for frac-out.

Operators will monitor the pits at the terminals of the drilling to ensure all drilling lubricants are

contained. In the event that drilling lubricant escapes the pits, drilling will be halted and the liquid

contained and removed. The pits will be emptied as necessary with the liquid reclaimed by the drilling

contractor as appropriate. Drilling will resume only once it is clear no further spills of drilling lubricant

will occur.

Net Effects

The Water Bodies Assessment Report identified that seven water bodies within the Project Location is

supportive of fish or fish habitat (WA02, WA03, WA05-09). The water crossing for cabling where Road

63 crosses WA01, and where 4th Concession B Road crosses WA05 and WA06 will be constructed using

HPDD, or a similar technique such as punch and bore. By following the relevant DFO Operational

Statement no net effects to fish and fish habitat are anticipated

5.4.4.4 Impacts as a Result of Frac-Out

Potential Effects

Directional drilling (or a similar technology such as punch and bore) will be used to cross cabling under

water bodies to minimise the impacts on these features. However there is a possibility that frac-outs can

occur. A frac-out is when excessive drilling pressure results in drilling mud propagating towards the



surface. The effects of frac-out include the alteration of water quality, largely through increases in

turbidity and changes in water chemistry.

Objectives

Minimize the risk of a frac-out occurring, and be prepared to react appropriately to contain the damage if

one does occur.

Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measures to avoid frac-out, and ensure preparedness in the event of a frac-out, follow the DFO

Operational Statement for HPDD (In the event that a similar technology such as punch and bore is used,

the applicable operational statement will be followed). The drill path will be designed to an appropriate

depth (approximately 1 m) below the watercourse to minimize the risk of frac-out and to a depth to

prevent the line from becoming exposed due to natural scouring of the stream bed. The drill entry and exit

points will be located at an appropriate distance from the banks of the watercourse to minimize

geomorphological impacts.


During HPDD (or punch and bore as applicable) the stream bed will be continually monitored for signs of

frac-out. Material and equipment needed to contain and clean up drilling mud releases on site will be

kept readily accessible in the event of a frac-out. A frac-out response plan will be prepared by the drilling

contractor and in the event of frac-out will be implemented. In this event, work will immediately be

halted, and the drilling mud contained to prevent its further migration into the watercourse. All applicable

authorities will be notified, including the closest DFO office in the area. Clean-up activities will be

prioritized relative to the risk of potential harm. Drilling mud within the pits will be immediately pumped

out by the contractor so no further mud enters the watercourse.

Should frac-out be experienced, an alternate drilling location will be attempted, with the course adjusted

suitably to further ensure the integrity of the stream bed during the drill. An additional metre below the

surface (for a total of at least 2 m below the stream bed) will be planned. Further, an offset of several

metres up or downstream as appropriate will be selected as the new drilling location. Consultation with

the DFO will be undertaken as necessary prior to the repetition of the drill. Equipment will be double-

checked to ensure proper functioning prior to commencing the drill. For the repetition of the drill all

above mitigation and monitoring procedures will again be followed.

Monitoring and contingency measures to be implemented if a frac-out occurs despite these mitigation

measures are included in the EEMP included within the Design and Operations Report.

Net Effects

Where cabling will cross under water bodies by way of directional drilling, the Department of Fisheries

and Oceans (DFO) Operational Statement for High-Pressure Directional Drilling (HPDD) will be

followed. During HPDD the stream bed will be continually monitored for signs of frac-out, and an

immediate response plan will be followed in case of frac-out occurring. As a result of these measures, no

net effects from the impacts of frac-out are anticipated.



5.4.4.5 Impacts from Products for Snow Removal

Potential Effects

Snow removal and application of sand and/or salt will be required during the winter months to maintain

safe conditions for maintenance activities. Excessive salt use can cause saline runoff into watercourses.

Excessive sand use can contribute to sediment-laden runoff into watercourses and may cause blockages in

drainage structures.

Objectives

Minimize the use of de-icing salts and sand.

Mitigation Measures

The following protection measures will be implemented to minimize the potential environmental effects

of snow removal, sanding and de-icing.

A professional service provider will be used for snow and ice removal on roads. The contractor

will follow the Best Management Practices as described in Environment Canada’s Best

Management Practices for Salt Use on Private Roads, Parking Lots and Sidewalks.

The use of sand, salt and combinations thereof, will be minimized to that which is necessary to

ensure the safety of the maintenance staff. Sand application will be the primary means of

maintaining safe driving conditions. Salt will only be used as necessary.

Prior to salt application, as much snow as possible will be removed from the road through

ploughing.

Salt application will be targeted to areas requiring treatment in order to minimize the volume of

salt used and the amount of salt lost to adjacent areas.

Snow removed from access roads and site surfaces will not be dumped within the 120m of a

wetland, water body, or other environmentally sensitive area.


No monitoring or contingency measures are proposed.

Net Effects

No net effects from the impacts of product for snow removal are anticipated.

5.4.5 Land Use

Project activities, from site preparation to transportation to infrastructure assembly, through operation and

decommissioning, have the potential to affect ecological, social, and economic land use patterns. Land

use change is traditionally understood in reference to the removal of agricultural land from production, or

installing infrastructure on lands designated for natural protection. The concept of land use change in the

present document also includes consideration of the socio-economic uses of forested land, such as timber

or firewood harvesting. Potential impacts on land use include increased traffic congestion, removal of

vegetative and agricultural lands, waste generation, as well as impacts on telecommunications and the

visual environment.



5.4.5.1 Traffic

Potential Effects

Increased traffic can be expected on routes near the project area during construction and decommissioning

of the wind farm. Some trucks used will be oversized to bring turbine equipment to the site. This has the

potential to cause traffic delays. Construction equipment and vehicles that may be used on site have been

detailed in the Construction Plan Report. The effects of increased road traffic are expected to be minor

and short lived. Nearby roads that may experience increased traffic levels include Highway 124, and Grey

Road 9.

Objectives

Minimize disturbance to local residents from traffic issues.

Mitigation Measures

The number of trips needed to bring equipment to site will be minimized as much as possible. Permits for

oversized vehicles will be obtained from the Ministry of Transportation, County of Grey, and

Municipality of Grey Highlands as necessary. Traffic control plans, road user agreements, and other

municipal agreements will be developed, acquired, and implemented to minimize impact on public roads

after REA submission.


Nearby residents with concerns about traffic impacts can contact the proponent as described in Section

6.3. In the event that the proposed transportation routes are inconveniencing local residents and alternate

routes are available and practical these will be considered as a contingency measure.

Net Effects

Increased traffic can be expected on routes near the project area. Although the number of trips needed to

bring equipment to site will be minimized through the development of a traffic management plan, traffic

congestion for limited time periods may occur along stretches of some roads (e.g. during transportation of

tower and turbines). No net effects are anticipated.

5.4.5.2 Removal of Agricultural Land and Vegetation Clearing

Potential Effects

Construction of project infrastructure will require clearing of vegetation within the Project Location and

removal of 4.8 hectares of agricultural land from production. Project infrastructure will be located almost

entirely on agricultural areas. No woodland or hedgerow area is expected to be cleared. Objectives

Minimize direct and indirect impacts of the land use changes.

Mitigation Measures

All lands which can be restored post-construction (e.g. construction pad areas) may be restored, thus

minimizing the longer-term impact of vegetation removal. On decommissioning of the project, all project

lands will be returned to their prior condition as nearly as possible.



The amount of agricultural land removed from production by the project has been minimized to the extent

possible. Where possible, new roads follow tracks previously used in farming activities. If requested by

the landowner, crane pads will be returned to agricultural use immediately following construction, or they

will be removed as part of the process of project decommissioning.


Any planned works within vegetated areas will be clearly marked and monitored daily to ensure that no

work occurs outside the marked area. The return of the crane pad areas to agricultural use, whether

immediately following construction or at project decommissioning, will be undertaken in cooperation

with the land owner, and any concerns regarding land use changes will be addressed through the process.

Net Effects

Temporary changes to land usage patterns during construction and operation will be short-term, and

should have no permanent effects. Cleared areas will be minimized, and re-vegetated at the earliest

opportunity where necessary. Upon decommissioning all project lands will be returned to their original

condition as nearly as possible. No long-term net effects from changes in land use are anticipated.

5.4.5.3 Waste

Potential Effects

Solid waste, if not properly controlled and disposed, can be unsightly and cause human safety and health

concerns. Uncontrolled hazardous waste can contaminate soils, surface- and groundwater, and can be

toxic to local vegetation, fish and wildlife, if ingested in sufficient quantities.

Objectives

Minimize waste generated on site as much as possible.

Mitigation Measures

Waste on site will be separated for reuse and recycling as much as possible. The construction contractor

will ensure the safe disposal of any waste materials.

Additionally, the following protection measures will minimize the potential environmental effects of solid

waste disposal:

The Contractor will designate and use areas for the transfer and limited temporary storage of

hazardous materials and special wastes. These sites will be properly labeled and appropriately

controlled, and will be located a minimum of 120 m from a wetland, water body, or other

environmentally sensitive area.

All waste will be handled in accordance with relevant provincial and federal requirements,

including but not limited to O Reg 347/09 S. 17.2.

Waste material will not be dumped on-site.

Waste and debris will be prevented from entering any water bodies, wetlands, watercourses or

other environmentally sensitive area. This shall include at a minimum proper waste management

and containment facilities at least 120 m from a wetland or water body.



Waste disposal and storage facilities and areas will be properly protected from the elements in

accordance with all applicable legislation and regulation such that run-off will not form nor enter

any watercourses, water bodies or wetlands.

Materials will be reused and recycled as much as possible. Waste will be disposed of safely at an

appropriate disposal location.

Waste generation specific to construction and decommissioning is discussed in greater detail in the

Construction Plan Report and the Decommissioning Plan Report.


Waste containers during construction and decommissioning will be checked daily to ensure that all waste

is property contained. In the event of a spill, the individual who discovers the leak or spill will

immediately attempt to stop and contain the leak or spill. Any spill or leak must be reported immediately

to the Construction or Operations Manager.

The Construction or Operations Manager will immediately report the spill to the Ontario Ministry of

Environment, Spills Action Centre which can be reached at 1-800-268-6060. A Spill Report Form

(provided in Appendix VI) shall be filled out and will include:

A description of the source, including the name of the owner or operator;

The nature, extent, duration and environmental impact of the release;

The cause or suspected cause of the release; and

Any remedial action taken or to be taken to prevent a recurrence of the leak or spill.

The site Contractor will have the full authority to take appropriate action without unnecessary delay. The

Spill Report Form in will be filled out by the Contractor immediately following the discovery of the spill

or leak and forwarded to the Project Manager.

The Contractor will assume the overall responsibility for coordinating the clean-up and maintaining this

contingency plan current and up-to-date. The Contractor will, in consultation with the regulatory

authorities (if warranted):

Deploy on-site personnel to contain the spilled material using a dyke, pit, or absorbent material;

Assess site conditions and environmental impact of various cleanup procedures;

Choose and implement an appropriate cleanup procedure;

Deploy on-site personnel to mobilize pumps and empty drums (or other appropriate storage) to

the spill site;

Dispose of all contaminated debris, cleaning materials, and absorbents by placing in an approved

disposal site.

Spill Cleanup Resource List:

Throughout the operational life of the project, the following resources will be available at an appropriate

location in readiness to respond to accidental releases of fuels and/or hazardous materials:

Absorbent materials (e.g. sorbent pads, Sorb-All, peat moss).

Small equipment such as shovels, rakes, tool kit, sledgehammer, buckets, stakes, tarpaulins, one

empty drum, and protective equipment.



Net Effects

No net effects from the impact of waste are anticipated.

5.4.5.4 Telecommunications

Potential Effects

The tower and blades of wind turbines can interfere with radio communication as described in the Radar

and Radio Communications Impact Report detailed in Appendix IV.

Objectives

Ensure siting of wind turbines to minimize impacts to telecommunications systems.

Mitigation Measures

Industry Canada’s Spectrum database was searched for radiocommunication systems near the Project

Location. Rogers Communications Partnership and Bayshore Broadcasting Corporation were identified as

operators of communications infrastructure within the consultation zones recommended by the Radio

Advisory Board of Canada and the Canadian Wind Energy Association. These parties have been

contacted and informed of the proposed turbine locations to determine whether any concerns arise with

respect to the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project. Early in discussions, Rogers identified potential impacts

to its operations; however, the turbine locations were adjusted in consultation with Rogers to mitigate

these impacts. Bayshore Broadcasting Corporation has indicated that it has no concerns. A complete list

of correspondence with public agencies is provided in Appendix B of the Radar and Radio

Communications Impact Report.

The potential exists for impacts to households with satellite or over-the-air television systems and these

impacts will be confirmed and resolved should any concerns arise. Further details are included in the

Radar and Radio Communications Impact Report found in Appendix IV.


Potential impacts to analog and digital broadcast television reception are possible and if so will be

mitigated. For instance, if nearby residents experience degraded reception the project proponents will

examine and troubleshoot the issues to ensure adequate reception is restored. Net Effects

If any impacts to television reception are identified they will be mitigated by the proponent. No net effects

on telecommunications are anticipated to result from the project.

5.4.5.5 Visual Landscape

Potential Effects

The wind farm will be a visible feature within the local landscape. Depending on the observer, the

turbines will have either a positive or negative effect on the local landscape.



Objectives

The wind turbines will be visible to local residents; however, disturbances related to lighting of turbines

will be minimized as much as possible.

Mitigation Measures

Lighting will be designed to ensure the minimal number of turbines is lit according to Transport Canada

guidelines (December 2011), requiring only single lighting fixtures for use during the night. Lights will

be made to blink in unison at night to minimize light pollution.


No monitoring or contingency is proposed.

Net Effects

The project will have an effect on the local landscape until decommissioning. Effects from lighting will

be minimized where possible. Upon decommissioning, the project area will be restored. No long-term net

effects are anticipated.

5.4.6 Birds

No significant bird habitats were identified within the Project Location, as determined through an

extensive natural heritage assessment. However, it is likely that birds inhabit areas of the project that were

not considered significant but these areas will have fewer species, fewer individuals and/or more common

species. Specific areas of inhabitation may include those delineated as generalized significant wildlife

habitat. This section discusses potential impacts to the general bird population of the area from

construction, operation and decommissioning activities.

In addition to the natural heritage reporting requirements under O. Reg. 359/09, the Skyway 126 Wind

Energy project will be in compliance with the requirements under the Endangered Species Act (2007) as

outlined in the Ministry of Natural Resources’ (MNR) Approvals and Permitting Requirements

Document. Details pertaining to Species at Risk are not described within this report.

5.4.6.1 Bird Mortality

Potential Effects

Although it is expected that many resident birds will become habituated to the wind turbines, the turbines

do present a mortality risk to birds. Breeding and courtship behaviour of some birds may result in

collision with the turbines during the operation of the wind farm. Collision mortality also may occur

during spring and fall migration, particularly during take-off and landing and in poor weather conditions.

Post-construction mortality surveys at wind facilities in North America suggest that bird mortality is

occurring as a result of interactions with turbines. A review of post-construction monitoring studies at 46

wind farms across the United States found most wind farms reported fewer than 4 bird mortalities per

megawatt per year (NWCC, 2010). Most mortalities noted occurred during bird migration periods though

were highly varied regionally (NWCC, 2010). Data from the MNR suggests that operational wind farms

in Ontario average roughly 2.5 bird deaths per turbine per year (OMNR, 2011b).



Objectives

Ensure bird mortalities are kept below MNR requirements. Current requirements are14/turbine/year at

individual turbines or turbine groups; 0.2 raptors/turbine/year (all raptors) across a wind power project;

0.1 raptors/turbine/year (provincially tracked raptors across a wind power project); and 2 raptors/wind

power project (<10 turbines).

Mitigation Measures

Turbines have been sited away from natural heritage features based on the results of the Natural Heritage

Assessment Reports. Post-construction bird monitoring will be implemented. Should bird mortality

thresholds be crossed during operation, mitigation measures such as increasing cut-in speeds of wind

turbines or halting operation of problem turbines at specific times of the year will be considered as

appropriate. Any mitigation measures utilized will be established with the cooperation of the MOE and

MNR.


Post-construction follow-up monitoring surveys will be conducted in accordance with the Natural

Heritage Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan detailed in Appendix V.

Net Effects

Bird mortality is a possible impact of the project, and will be carefully monitored to ensure levels are

below MNR requirements. Should bird mortality thresholds be exceeded during operation, mitigation

measures will be considered. As a result of these measures net effects on bird populations will be

minimized.

5.4.6.2 Bird Disturbance

Potential Effects

During the construction and decommissioning phases the presence of humans and machinery and the

associated noise will likely cause birds to avoid the areas under construction. Breeding behaviour has the

potential to be impacted. Although it is expected that many resident birds will become habituated to the

wind turbines, there may be some behavioural impacts during construction, operation, and

decommissioning. Avoidance of the wind farm may result in habitat fragmentation for some species.

Effects of construction on resident bird species is expected to be temporally and spatially limited, and

reversible in nature.

Objectives

Minimize breeding and behavioural disturbance to birds.

Mitigation Measures

Project infrastructure has been sited beyond 120 m of any significant bird habitat. Construction activities

will be restricted to the proposed areas. Woodland and hedgerow areas are not expected to be cleared.

However, minor fragmented clearing may be necessary (e.g. of standalone trees that do not constitute

woodland or hedgerow area). If clearing must occur, it will be avoided during the breeding season (May

and July) to the extent practical. If tree-clearing activities are unavoidable during this period, then a



trained biologist will search the area in advance to ensure that no bird nests are present in any work areas.

If an active nest is found of a federally (i.e. Migratory Birds Convention Act) or provincially (i.e. Fish and

Wildlife Conservation Act) protected species within the proposed construction area a mitigation plan will

be developed to prevent negative impacts to those species. The mitigation plan will be discussed with

Environment Canada or the MNR as applicable prior to implementation.


No post-construction behavioural monitoring or contingency plans are proposed. If tree clearing during

breeding season is unavoidable then a trained biologist will search the area in advance to ensure that no

bird nests are present in any work areas.

Net Effects

Although no significant bird habitat was identified within the Project Location, generic habitat for birds

likely exists. While measures to mitigate behavioural disturbance to breeding birds will be implemented,

including giving consideration to restricting construction activities during the breeding season, project

activities may temporarily disturb birds to a limited extent. No long term net effects to bird breeding and

behaviour are anticipated.

5.4.6.3 Habitat Loss

Potential Effects

No clearing of woodland or hedgerow areas are expected to occur. However, minor fragmented clearing

may be necessary (e.g. of standalone trees that do not constitute woodland or hedgerow area). Although

not expected, clearing may reduce available habitat for birds and impact active nests during breeding

season.

Objectives

Minimize loss of habitat and avoid destruction of active nests.

Mitigation Measures

Project infrastructure has been sited beyond 120 m of any significant bird habitat. Woodland and

hedgerow areas are not expected to be cleared. However, minor fragmented clearing may be necessary

(e.g. of standalone trees that do not constitute woodland or hedgerow area). If clearing must occur, it will

be avoided to the extent practical during the breeding season (May and July). If tree-clearing activities are

unavoidable during this period, then a trained biologist will search the area in advance to ensure that no

bird nests are present in any work areas. If an active nest is found of a federally (i.e. Migratory Birds

Convention Act) or provincially (i.e. Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act) protected species within the

proposed construction area a mitigation plan will be developed to prevent negative impacts to those

species. The mitigation plan will be discussed with Environment Canada or the MNR as applicable prior

to implementation.


No post-construction behavioural monitoring or contingency plans are proposed.



Net Effects

Although no significant bird habitat was identified within the Project Location, generic habitat for birds

likely exists. Habitat loss is not expected as a result of direct impacts from this project. No net effects on

bird populations due to impacts of habitat loss are anticipated.

5.4.7 Bats

No significant bat maternity colonies or hibernacula were identified during pre-construction surveys, as

determined through an extensive natural heritage assessment. However, it is likely that bats inhabit areas

of the project that were not considered significant but these areas will have fewer species, fewer

individuals and/or more common species. Specific areas of inhabitation may include those delineated as

generalized significant wildlife habitat.

In addition to the Natural Heritage reporting requirements under O. Reg. 359/09, the Skyway 126 Wind

Energy project will be in compliance with the requirements under the Endangered Species Act (2007) as

outlined in the Ministry of Natural Resources’ (MNR) Approvals and Permitting Requirements

Document. Details pertaining to Species at Risk are not described within this report. This section

discusses potential impacts to the general bat population of the area from construction activities.

5.4.7.1 Mortality

Potential Effects

There is an increasing need to protect bat species as their populations are declining across North America

due to White Nose Syndrome. Bats are less equipped to avoid turbine blades because their navigational

systems depend on echolocation which detects objects in their flight path. The potential effects of a wind

farm on bat species include mortality, which may occur as a result of direct collision or barotrauma –

internal injuries caused by rapid pressure reductions undetectable by echolocation. A review of post-

construction monitoring studies at 46 wind farms across the United States found most wind farms

reported fewer than 10 bat mortalities per megawatt per year (NWCC, 2010). Most mortalities noted

occurred during bat migration periods though were highly varied regionally (NWCC, 2010). Data from

the MNR suggests that operational wind farms in Ontario average roughly 4-14 bat deaths, per year per

turbine (OMNR, 2011a).

Objectives

Ensure bat mortalities are kept below MNR requirements. The current requirement is 10 bats/turbine/year.

Mitigation Measures

Project infrastructure has been sited beyond 120 m of any significant bat habitats. Construction activities

will be restricted to the proposed areas. Woodland and hedgerow areas are not expected to be cleared.

Use of construction lighting will be kept to a minimum. Aeronautical lighting will be kept to the

minimum required by Transport Canada.


Post-construction follow-up monitoring surveys will be conducted in accordance with the Natural

Heritage Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan detailed in Appendix V. Should bat mortality



thresholds be exceeded during operation, mitigation measures such as increasing cut-in speeds of wind

turbines or halting operation of problem turbines at specific times of the year will be considered. Any

mitigation measures utilized will be established with the cooperation of the MOE and MNR.

Net Effects

Although no significant bat habitat was identified within the Project Location, generic habitat for bats

likely exists. Despite mitigation measures for construction and decommissioning activities, resident bats

may experience disturbances. During operation, bat mortality will be carefully monitored to ensure it

remains below MNR requirements. Should bat mortality thresholds be exceeded during operation,

mitigation measures established with the cooperation of the MOE and MNR will be considered. As a

result of these measures net effects on bat populations will be minimized.

5.4.7.2 Disturbance

Potential Effects

Wind farm construction has the potential to affect local bat species. During the construction phase the

presence of humans and machinery and the associated noise will likely cause bats to avoid the areas under

construction. Breeding behaviour has the potential to be impacted. Lighting used during construction

also has the potential to impact bat behaviour.

It has also been shown that many bats habituate to the presence of wind turbines, and this reduces the

potential for significant displacement during operation. Aeronautical lighting may impact bat behaviour.

For some species habitat fragmentation due to the presence of turbine and access roads may impact

behaviour.

Objectives

Minimize breeding and behavioural disturbance to bats.

Mitigation Measures

Project infrastructure has been sited beyond 120 m of any significant bat maternity habitats. Construction

activities will be restricted to the proposed areas. Use of construction lighting will be kept to a minimum.

Aeronautical lighting will be kept to the minimum required by Transport Canada.


No post-construction behavioural monitoring or contingency plans are proposed.

Net Effects

Disturbance to bats is expected to be limited in scope and duration. Net effects of the project in terms of

disturbance to bats are expected to be minimal.



5.4.7.3 Habitat Loss

Potential Effects

No clearing of woodland or hedgerow areas are expected to occur. Although not expected, clearing may

reduce available habitat for bats.

Objectives

Minimize the loss of bat habitat.

Mitigation Measures

Project infrastructure has been sited farther than 120 m from significant bat habitat. Cleared areas have

been minimized to the extent possible.


No post-construction monitoring or contingency plans are proposed.

Net Effects

Although no significant bat habitat was identified within the Project Location, generic habitat for bats

likely exists. Habitat loss is not expected as a result of direct impacts from this project. No net effects on

bat populations due to impacts of habitat loss are anticipated.

5.4.8 Natural Heritage Features and Significant Wildlife Habitat

Significant Natural Heritage Features and Wildlife Habitat were identified during Natural Heritage

Assessment surveys. Table 5-2 below summarizes the impacts to these features and habitats and presents

mitigation measures for each. Many of the impacts and mitigation measures presented below are also

presented elsewhere within this report. However, Table 5-2 below specifically addresses impacts to

individual features. Please refer to the Natural Heritage Assessment and Environmental Impact Study

Report for further details.



Table 5-2: Anticipated Environmental Impacts, Performance Objectives and Mitigation Measures for Significant Natural Heritage Features

Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m

Function Potential Negative Effect(s) Performance

Objective Mitigation Measures Residual

Effects

Direct Indirect

WETLANDS

WE02 4 m to

underground

electrical

cabling along

pre-existing

Road 63.

Functions as wildlife

habitat, storage of

carbon, cleaning air,

hydrological

cycling, nutrient

cycling (OMNR,

2005) absorbing of

spring runoff from

the agricultural

fields.

Construction/

Decommissioning of

electrical cabling within

the right-of-way of Road

63:

No encroachment onto

feature.

Potential for erosion

and/or sedimentation from

construction activities, but

these impacts will be

short term and highly

localized.

Minimal risk of

contamination to soils

from spills and leaks

anticipated.

Dust generation from

construction activities will

be short-term and highly

localized.

Localized

displacement of

wildlife

inhabiting

WE02 due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of wetland.

Ensure

minimal

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.

Construction activities will be limited to designated construction area. Areas

for construction will be, at a minimum, 4m from the edge of the wetland. The

wetland boundary will be demarcated in the field by a qualified biologist

using OWES methodology (50% wetland vegetation rule).

All workers will be notified of wetland significance. Daily visual monitoring

of work area by constructor manager will occur to ensure compliance

(construction only occurring within demarcated area).

Silt fencing will be erected 4m from the edge of the wetland boundary. Use of

erosion and sedimentation control measures such as silt fences or erosion

control blankets will be applied when construction is within 30m of the

wetland. Erosion and sediment fencing will be inspected daily to ensure they

are functioning and maintained as required. If erosion and sediment control

measures are not functioning properly, alternative measures will be

implemented and prioritized above other construction activities. Inspection

will continue until vegetation has become established and the disturbed areas

are stabilized.

The size and exposure time of disturbed (trenched) areas for burial of

underground electrical cables will be minimized to the shortest extent

possible.

All disturbed areas will be re-vegetated as soon as possible to pre-

construction conditions. Erosion and sediment control measures such as

erosion blankets will be used until re-vegetation in the next growing season.

All natural areas will be restored using native species.

Implement dust suppression when needed such as wetting gravel or topsoil

piles, and limiting vehicle speeds on gravel or dirt roads

No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect

All equipment used on site will be maintained in good working order. Safe

storage of petroleum, oils and lubricants will be ensured. Where possible,

vehicle maintenance will be performed off site, at a nearby commercial

fuelling station, in order to minimize the amount of lubricants and oils stored

on site. Storage and disposal of petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL), and

equipment fuelling is not allowed within 120m of any significant natural

feature, watercourse or water body. In the event of an accidental spill, the

MOE Spills Action Centre will be contacted and emergency spill procedures

implemented immediately. Any fuel storage and activities with the potential

for contamination will occur in properly protected and sealed areas.

WE03 2 m to

underground

electrical

cabling along

4th

Concession

B Road


habitat, storage of


hydrological

cycling, nutrient

cycling OMNR,

2005) absorbing of

spring runoff from

the agricultural

fields.

Construction/

Decommissioning of



63 and 4th

Concession B:


feature.






localized.

Minimal risk of



anticipated.




localized.

Localized

displacement of

wildlife

inhabiting

WE03 due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of wetland.

Ensure

minimal

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.


for construction will be, at a minimum, 2 m from the edge of the wetland. The






Silt fencing will be erected 2m from the edge of the wetland boundary. Use of

erosion and sedimentation control measures such as silt fences or erosion







are stabilized.



possible.



No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect















Adherence to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ontario Operational Statement

for Maintenance of Riparian Vegetation in Existing Rights-of-Way.

WE04 4 m to

underground

electrical

cabling along

pre-existing

Road 63.


habitat, storage of


hydrological

cycling, nutrient

cycling (OMNR,

2005) absorbing of

spring runoff from

the agricultural

fields.

Construction/

Decommissioning of



63 and 4th

Concession B:


feature.






localized.

Minimal risk of

Localized

displacement of

wildlife

inhabiting

WE04 due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of wetland.

Ensure

minimal

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.


for construction will be, at a minimum, 4m from the edge of the wetland. The






Silt fencing will be erected 4 m from the edge of the wetland boundary. Use

of erosion and sedimentation control measures such as silt fences or erosion






No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect



anticipated.




localized.


are stabilized.



possible.

















WOODLANDS

WO01 10 m, 33 m,

54 m, 46 m

and 46 m to

T2 bladeswept

area, laydown,

turbine,

underground

electrical

Functions in total

area, woodland

interior, native

diversity dominant,

water protection and

proximity to other

significant

Construction/

Decommissioning of

Turbine 1 and associated

components including:

foundation, cranepad,

blade swept area, laydown

area access road and

Displacement of

wildlife

inhabiting W001

due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of woodland.

Ensure

minimal

residual

disturbance to

Construction activities will be limited to designated construction area.

Areas for construction will be demarcated with silt fencing and placed, at a

minimum, 30m from the woodland edge as defined by the drip line (outer

edge of the canopy). All workers will be notified of woodland significance.

Daily visual monitoring of work area by constructor manager will occur to

ensure compliance (construction only occurring within demarcated area).

Silt fencing will be erected 30 m from the edge of the woodland boundary,

No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect

cabling and

cranepad,

respectively.

40 m to both

temporary and

permanent

project road to

T2

woodlands/habitats. electrical cabling:


feature.






localized.

Minimal risk of



anticipated.




localized.

wildlife using

habitat.

where possible. Erosion and sediment fencing will be inspected daily to

ensure they are functioning and maintained as required. If erosion and

sediment control measures are not functioning properly, alternative measures

will be implemented and prioritized above other construction activities.







All equipment used on site will be ensured to be in good working order. Safe










Operation of Turbine 1;

use of access road for

maintenance:

Use of road salt during

winter months may

increase salinity of water

bodies, wetlands and soil

associated with WO01.

Indirect effects

from operation

(i.e. noise,

vehicle

movement)

could

temporarily

disturb wildlife

living in this

habitat.

Use of access road will be restricted for maintenance vehicles only when

required.

Minimize use of road salt; use of licensed contractor for winter road clearing

and maintenance.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect

WO03 4 m to

underground

electrical

cabling along

4th

Concession

B Road

Functions in total

area, woodland

interior, native

diversity dominant,

water protection and

proximity to other

significant

woodlands/habitats.

Construction/

Decommissioning of



63 and 4th

Concession B:


feature.






localized.

Minimal risk of



anticipated.




localized.

Localized

displacement of

wildlife

inhabiting

WO03 due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of wetland.

Ensure

minimal

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.

Construction activities will be limited to designated construction area.

Areas for construction will be demarcated by a qualified biologist with silt

fencing and placed, at a minimum, 4 m from the woodland edge as defined by

the drip line (outer edge of the canopy). All workers will be notified of

woodland significance. Daily visual monitoring of work area by constructor

manager will occur to ensure compliance (construction only occurring within

demarcated area).

Silt fencing will be erected 4 m from the edge of the woodland boundary.

Erosion and sediment fencing will be inspected daily to ensure they are

functioning and maintained as required. If erosion and sediment control




are stabilized.



possible.














No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect




WILDLIFE HABITAT

DWCA01 8 m north of

underground

electrical

cabling along

4th

Concession.

DWCA01 has been

identified as an area

of coniferous swamp

where deer annually

congregate in large

numbers during the

winter months.

Movement in the

area is not

constrained by snow

depth.

Construction/

Decommissioning of


the right-of-way of 4th

Concession B:


feature.

Localized

displacement of

deer inhabiting

DWCA01due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of habitat.

Ensure

minimal

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.

As DWCA01 is located within the WE03/WO03, areas for construction will

be demarcated using the mitigation measures for WE03 and WO03. All

workers will be notified of habitat significance. Daily visual monitoring of

work area to ensure compliance (construction only occurring within

demarcated area).

No construction between Dec 1st through April 15th when the snow depth is

greater than 20cm or there is evidence of yarding. In years where

environmental conditions are not favourable for yarding, MNR will be

contacted to determine if construction activities may proceed between Dec 1st

and April 15th.

Mitigation measures detailed for WE03 and WO03 will also be applied (see

above)

No residual

effects

anticipated.

ABH01 10 m, 33 m,

54 m, 46 m

and 46 m to

T2 bladeswept

area, laydown,

turbine,

underground

electrical

cabling and

cranepad,

respectively.

40 m to both

temporary and

Wetland, lake or

pond within or

adjacent to (within

120 m) to a

woodland that

provide amphibian

breeding habitat.

Woodlands with

permanent ponds or

those containing

water in most years

until mid-July are

most likely to be

Construction/

Decommissioning of

Turbine 1 and associated

components including:

foundation, cranepad,

blade swept area, laydown

area access road and

electrical cabling:






Displacement of

amphibians

using ABH01

due to

construction

noise.

Maintain form

and function

of woodland.

Ensure

minimal

residual

disturbance to

wildlife using

habitat.

As ABH01 occupies the same location as WO01, the same mitigation

measures detailed above for WO01 will be applied for ABH01.

In addition to these mitigation measures, construction is to take place outside

of the sensitive April-June breeding period for this habitat.

Should construction be unavoidable in April- June a trained biologist will

accompany construction crews to monitor amphibian movements within

vicinity (120m) of the amphibian breeding habitat and where possible prevent

mortality. Specifically, the biologist will search the area for amphibians and

usher them to areas outside of the construction zone according to MNR

recommended best practices. As amphibians can be sensitive, no handling or

collection will occur. There will be no collection or capturing of amphibians.

No residual

effects

anticipated.



Natural

Feature

ID

Distance to

Project

Components

within 120 m



Effects

Direct Indirect

permanent

project road to

T2

used as breeding

habitat.

localized.

Minimal risk of



anticipated.




localized.

Operation of Turbine 1;

use of access road for

maintenance:

Use of road salt during

winter months may

increase salinity of water

bodies, wetlands and soil

associated with ABH01.

Indirect effects

from operation

(i.e. noise,

vehicle

movement)

could

temporarily

disturb

amphibians

using this

habitat.

Use of access road will be restricted for maintenance vehicles only when

required.

Minimize use of road salt; use of licensed contractor for winter road clearing

and maintenance.

Post-construction monitoring to ensure ongoing use of habitat by amphibians

during breeding season (April-June).



5.4.8.1 Environmental Effects Monitoring

Specific mitigation and monitoring measures for potential environmental impacts to natural heritage

features that require monitoring are addressed in the Natural Heritage Environmental Effects Monitoring

Plan detailed in Appendix V. The mitigation and associated monitoring measures are relevant to the

significant natural features identified in Table 5-2. Information presented in the NHEEMP will serve to

verify that mitigation measures are effective for meeting performance objectives. If performance

objectives are not being met, as indicated by monitoring, contingency measures will be used to ensure that

remedial action is taken to comply with identified performance objectives. By providing adequate and

detailed information in the NHEEMP, the REA regulatory requirement to describe how the

Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan (EEMP) addresses any negative environmental effects to natural

features, provincial parks and conservation reserves can be fulfilled.

5.4.8.2 Generalized Significant Wildlife Habitats

As specified in Appendix D to the Natural Heritage Assessment Guide for Renewable Energy Projects,

candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat identified within 120 m of underground lines (with the exception of

winter deer yards) is not required to be delineated or evaluated. Instead, it is treated as Generalized

Significant Wildlife Habitat (GSWH).

Construction activities for the burial of underground electrical lines will occur along pre-existing

roadways in the road right-of-way. Construction of underground lines would involve the temporary

removal of surface materials (including vegetation) and soils, followed by the replacement of this

material. The area affected by the underground burial of electrical taplines will be minimized.

Burial of underground electrical taplines > 0.1-4 m from WO03/WE02, WO03/WE03 and WO03/WE04

may result in erosion from excavation and re-filling of trenches. These impacts will be short-term and

highly localized. Moreover, control measures such as the use of silt fences, minimizing the size and

exposure time of disturbed areas, and erosion control blankets will be used where appropriate. It is

anticipated that impacts to any GSWH within features are extremely unlikely. Sedimentation and erosion

impacts will be minimized as all construction areas within close proximity to water bodies will occur

within pre-existing road right-of-ways. See Section 5.4.4.2 for a full description of the Sedimentation &

Erosion Control Plan. No impacts from operation are anticipated. See Section 5.4.4.2 for specific erosion

control measures for the features listed above, which will minimize any potential impacts to GSWH

located within these areas.

Additionally, there is some potential for improper storage or disposal of oils, gasoline, grease or other

materials used in construction vehicles, turbines or maintenance vehicles which may result in spills or

leaks, contaminating soils or groundwater. Please see the Section 5.4.4.1 for a full description of the

Spills & Leaks Control Plan for Skyway 126 Wind Energy project.

Localized wildlife disturbance due to construction activities, in the form of noise and dust, are expected

but will be controlled by limiting construction activities for the proposed area along with clear delineation

to keep construction workers out of the GSWH areas. Dust will be kept to a minimum by regularly

wetting the roads.

No residual impacts are anticipated for the GSWH areas along the underground electrical cable route

when the above mitigation measures, as described in the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan, are

taken into account.



6 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND COMMUNICATIONS PLAN

The following section lists key organizations and/or individuals that may be contacted during emergency

situations and regarding regulatory issues, followed by the Project Contact List. This list will be posted in

the base of each turbine, and it will be carried by construction and maintenance personnel during the

construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of the project.

Agency Area, Contact Person Phone Number

Emergency Contacts

Ambulance/Police/Rescue 9-1-1

Fire Emergency Response 9-1-1

Environmental Emergencies and Spills

Ministry of Environment, Spills Action

Centre

Ontario 1-800-268-6060

Local Hospitals with Emergency Services

Collingwood General & Marine Hospital 705-445-2550

Regulatory and Municipal Contacts

Ministry of Natural Resources Midhurst District Office 705-725-7500

Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture Walkerton – Janine Dunlop, Regional Advisor

– Citizenship, Culture & Health Promotion

519-881-1081

Ministry of Transportation Owen Sound 519-376-7350

Ontario Ministry of Environment London District Office 519-873-5000

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board Kitchener 519-576-4130

Toll Free 1-800-265-2570

Project Contacts

Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP TBA (Project Manager)

When contacting emergency agencies, the location of the project and contact information of the personnel

on site should be given. The project address is:

269294 South Line C, RR1,

Badjeros, ON, N0C 1A0

6.1 Status Updates

The Community Liaison Committee will be updated on all significant project milestones. In addition,

status updates will be sent by mail or e-mail to the Municipality of Grey Highlands and the County of

Grey. These updates will also be posted on the project website.



6.2 Emergency Notification

Emergencies can be triggered by various events, such as POL and waste spills and leaks, fires, or ice

throw. In case of emergencies, the appropriate emergency response bodies will be contacted. Details

regarding emergency notification can be found in the Environmental Effects Monitoring Plan in Section 5

of this report.

6.3 Protocol for Responding to Public Inquiries

The protocol for responding to public inquiries will be as follows:

A log will be kept of all public inquiries. These records will be kept on hand by Cloudy Ridge

Wind Park LP for at least 2 years.

The project operator will respond to all public inquiries within a reasonable time period.

The project operator will record all responses and actions taken in the log.

The project operator will engage appropriate agencies or authorities (for example the Ministry of

Environment for noise issues).

6.4 Contact Information

All relevant contact information for Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP, including postal address, phone

number, and e-mail address, will be posted on the project website for public reference and sent to any

nearby Municipalities and Aboriginal communities. This communication pathway will remain open for

the lifetime of the project.



7 CONCLUSIONS

The Skyway 126 Wind Energy project, proposed by the Cloudy Ridge Wind Park LP, will have a

nameplate capacity of 10 MW, consisting of five (5) REpower MM92 wind turbines of 2 MW each.

Turbines will be built in five proposed locations. The project will be constructed on privately-owned

agricultural lands near the community of Badjeros, within the Municipality of Grey Highlands. The

Skyway 126 Wind Energy project has received a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under Ontario’s

Feed-In Tariff (FIT) Program. This wind energy project is subject to the Renewable Energy Approval

(REA) process per Ontario Regulation 359/09 under the Environmental Protection Act. Environmental

studies carried out under the REA process will ensure that the Skyway 126 Wind Energy project produces

clean, emissions-free electricity while minimizing negative environmental effects.

This Design and Operations Report presented the site plan, details of the wind farm design and an

operations plan for the facility. The report also detailed mitigation measures for any environmental

impacts, how they will be monitored and contingency plans in the event that mitigation measures fail. A

plan for managing emergency responses and communications was also discussed within this report. It has

provided information that may be relevant to stakeholders and the public or in relation to authorizations

that may from other provincial ministries or approval agencies. Further details on the project will be

found in the documents compiled with the complete REA application.



8 QUALIFICATIONS AND LIMITATIONS

M. K. Ince & Associates Ltd. (MKI) has prepared this report in accordance with its proposal and

information provided by its Client. The information and analysis contained herein is for the sole benefit of

the Client and save for regulatory review purposes may not be relied upon by any other person.

MKI’s assessment was made in accordance with guidelines, regulations and procedures believed to be

current at this time. Changes in guidelines, regulations and enforcement policies can occur at any time

and such changes could affect the conclusions and recommendations of this report.

The reports, maps and related documents may rely on information provided to MKI by the Client. This

information may include but is not limited to manufacturer and construction specifications and other

related information. Maps are created using a Geographic Information System (GIS) that compiles

records, information, and data from various sources which may contain errors. While we have referred to

and made use of reports, maps and geospatial data and specifications prepared by others, we assume no

liability for the accuracy of the information contained within.

Maps and documents made available by MKI are not legal surveys and are not intended to be used as

such. No original surveying is included as part of these maps. If any contradictions exist between this

document and relevant municipal, provincial or federal laws, regulations, codes, or policies, the text of the

laws, regulations, codes or policies will be the legal authority.



9 REFERENCES

Australian Government. (2010). Wind turbines and health: a rapid review of evidence. National Health

and Medical Research Council, 1-11.

Australian Government. (2011). The social and economic impact of rural wind farms. Community Affairs

References Committee, 1-131.

Burton, T., D. Sharpe, N. Jenkins and E. Bossanyi (2001). Wind energy handbook. West Sussex,

England: John Wiley and Sons.

Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit. (2008). The health impact of wind turbines: a review of the current

white, grey and published literature. Chatham-Kent Municipal Council, Chatham Ontario, 1-26.

Garrad Hassan Canada. 2007. Recommendations for risk assessment of ice throw and blade failure in

Ontario.

Harding, P., Wilkins, A. (2008). Wind turbines, flicker, and photosensitive epilepsy: characterizing the

flashing that may precipitate seizures and optimizing guidelines to prevent them. Epilepsia 49

(6):1095-1098.

Health Canada. (2012). Electric and Magnetic Fields from Power Lines and Appliances. Catalogue #

H13-7/70-2012E-PDF, ISBN # 978-1-100-21395-8.

Knopper, L.D. and Ollson, C.A. (2011). Health effects and wind turbines: A review of the literature.

Environmental Health, 10:78. http://www.ehjournal.net/content/10/1/78

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Massachusetts Department of

Public Health (MDPH). (2012). Wind turbine health impact study: report of independent expert

panel, 1-164.

Ministry of Environment. (2008). Noise Guidelines for Wind Farms: Interpretation for Applying MOE

NPC Publications to Wind Power Facilities. Government of Ontario, 1-18.

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (2002). EMF: Electric and magnetic fields

associated with the use of electric power. NIEHS/DOE EMF Rapid Program, 1-65.

National Wind Coordinating Collaborative (NWCC). Wind Turbine Interactions with Birds, Bats, and

their Habitats: A Summary of Research Results and Priority Questions Spring 2010.

http://www.nationalwind.org

Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health. (2010). The potential health impact of wind turbines. Chief

Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) report. Toronto, ON: Queen's Printer for Ontario; 2010. p. 1-

14.

Smedley, A.R.D., Webb, A.R., Wilkins, A.J. (2010). Potential of wind turbines to elicit seizures under

various meteorological conditions. Epilepsia 51 (7):1146-1151.

http://www.ehjournal.net/content/10/1/78



World Health Organization. (2007). Environmental Health Criteria 238: Extremely Low Frequency

Fields. WHO Press, Geneva, Switzerland. Available on line: http://www.who.int/peh-

emf/publications/elf_ehc/en/index.html

http://www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/elf_ehc/en/index.html

http://www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/elf_ehc/en/index.html

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