The Honourable Chris Tibbs, Minister of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, has shared updates on key environmental assessments related to the Environmental Protection Act.
Thorburn Lake Forest Access Road Quarry (Reg. 2399) is a proposed five-hectare quarry near Thorburn Lake, about 4.5 km from the access road. L’Tuek Construction Inc. plans to build a 165-meter access road and will handle activities like clearing, screening, and stockpiling. Notably, there won’t be any blasting or fuel storage on-site. This quarry aims to provide sand and gravel for concrete production in Clarenville.
More details can be found on the Department of Environment’s website. The project was registered on April 2, 2026, with public comments open until May 7, 2026. The minister’s decision will be made by May 17, 2026. Feedback can be sent to EAProjectComments@gov.nl.ca.
Goodyear’s Dam Upgrades (Reg. 2398) are in the works by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro. Upgrades include strengthening both sides of the dam and building a new fishway to ensure Atlantic Salmon can navigate. This initiative aims to maintain the essential ecosystem in the area.
Like the Thorburn Lake project, this undertaking was registered on April 2, 2026, with the same public comment deadlines. Full project descriptions are available online.
Labrador West Cowboy Creek Quarry (Reg. 2388) has been released from environmental assessment with certain conditions. Allard Distributing Ltd. is behind this project. Detailed guidelines can be found on the Environment Department’s website.
Additionally, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has introduced a draft co-operation agreement with the Government of Canada. This agreement aims to streamline environmental assessments, reduce duplication of efforts, and bolster investment opportunities. A 30-day public comment period is open for feedback on this draft, which can be reviewed at the consultation page.
In recent years, the importance of environmental assessments has grown. According to a 2023 survey by the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 70% of Canadians believe that thorough assessments are crucial for protecting natural resources. This trend highlights a shift in public awareness and concern for the environment.
For those interested in following updates or participating in discussions, more information is available through the Environmental Assessment Division. Relevant links can also be accessed to stay informed. If you wish to comment on any of these projects while ensuring your thoughts remain private from proponents, please make that known in your correspondence.
