In its decision, released today, the NEB also approved Enbridge’s plan to leave the section of pipe that is being replaced under the Mackenzie River. The section of pipe that is to be left behind will be cleaned, filled with grout and capped, in accordance with NEB regulations and CSA standards.
The NEB held a hearing in Fort Simpson, NT from October 23 – 26, 2017 to review the application. During the hearing, the NEB heard from Enbridge, six intervenors and nine commenters including: Indigenous groups, local governments, Imperial Oil Resources N.W.T. Limited and the Government of the Northwest Territories. The NEB carried out an environmental assessment of the project and found that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
In order to review this application in a timely and effective way, the NEB coordinated its oral hearing with that of the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, which also has regulatory responsibilities under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act.
The NEB attached a total of 26 mandatory project conditions to its approval of the project. These conditions include a requirement to file an Indigenous Monitoring Plan with the NEB. This plan will describe how local Indigenous peoples will participate in monitoring project construction and post-construction. Enbridge must also file Indigenous Engagement Reports and an Indigenous Knowledge and Land Use Study Update.
