Teck’s proposed Frontier Oilsands mine project would impact several species of wildlife according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
Susanne Forbrich, team leader of ECCC said at the joint panel hearing on Monday that the $20.6 billion dollar project would not only cause the loss of range and habitat for the Ronald Lake wood bison herd, but could also create disease transmission and reduce the size of the herd.
Forbrich added that some of Teck’s proposed strategies are “uncertain or potentially ineffective.”
The project also represents a high mortality risk for the whooping crane, which is the rarest bird species in North America.
“This conclusion is based on evidence that whooping cranes land near the proposed mine, that whooping cranes have landed at existing oilsands mines, including at tailings ponds, despite the presence of best available bird deterrent systems.”
It has been recommended that Teck “initiate and collaborate” to study the extent of the effects the project could have on migrating birds.
Other species that could be affected by the project include caribou, Canada warbler, and other migratory birds.
Teck has agreed to some of the recommendations and aspects of others.
ECCC recommended that every portion of the project, if approved, should be done in the highest level of stewardship.
