Project Launch – Migratory Bird Synthesis of Best Practices

The Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) has launched a project to develop a synthesis of best practices for managing migratory birds, their eggs and nests during construction, operation and maintenance activities. 

Advanced by the Environmental Issues Management, and the Environmental Advisory and Legislation standing committees, the project objective is to develop transportation sector specific best management practices from a wide range of sectors, including transportation, utilities, and oil and gas, with direction from the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS).

Key tasks in the project will include:

• Researching acceptable approaches used in Canada and in the United States
• Gathering information on common activities across related sectors that affect migratory birds, their eggs and nests and reasonable mitigation approaches
• Consulting with the CWS to secure endorsement of proposed practices
• Preparing research documentation and best management practices to be used in transportation projects
• Developing a practical tool for implementing beneficial management plans

The project steering committee will be finalizing its request for proposals and selecting the project consultant in the near future.

Project funding partners include Transport Canada, Alberta Transportation, Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation, New Brunswick Transportation and Infrastructure, Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario and the cities of Calgary and Edmonton.

Background

Over the past decade, Environment Canada has contemplated approaches to applying the provisions of the Migratory Bird Convention Act and Regulations.  In 2010, Environment Canada decided not to pursue new permitting provisions in regulation that would allow construction, operation and maintenance activities to be undertaken without risk of non-compliance with the legislation.  Proponents responsible for infrastructure have been directed to develop beneficial management plans (best management practices) in consultation with CWS, Environment Canada.