Despite repeated requests, experts from the governments of Quebec and Canada have still not obtained all the information necessary to assess the impact of the Neiges wind project, in the Charlevoix region, on the Bicknell’s thrush. More than half of the global population of this “critically endangered” bird is found in the province.
According to official data, at least two of the three phases of the project, namely the “South sector” and the “Charlevoix sector”, will be located in the “critical habitat” of this species, which was designated under the Act species at risk in Canada. Wind farms are among the “primary threats” to this bird, according to the federal recovery strategy.
The impact studies of these two phases have been the subject of discussions for several months between the promoters and experts from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and the Ministry of the Environment and the Fight against Climate Change. , Wildlife and Parks (MELCCFP).
Government scientists have repeatedly demanded clarification regarding the presence of Bicknell’s thrush, the area of habitat affected and the anticipated impacts of carrying out this project, since the encroachment on its habitat will be permanent.
In a document posted online on September 27, ECCC also emphasizes “the critical situation of the species, which has continued to deteriorate in recent years”, but also “the importance of the habitats present in the area study” and on “the potential magnitude of impacts associated with habitat loss”, due to planned deforestation. By combining the “South” and “Charlevoix” sectors, there would be 120 to 160 wind turbines.
In the case of the “South sector”, the federal ministry, however, says it is unable to comment on “the effects” of the project on the Bicknell’s thrush. ECCC is therefore calling for “a clearer picture”, particularly with regard to the possible movement of wind turbines or paths, but also “the assessment of impacts”.
“Avoidance”
In their response, published on October 13, the developers recognize that “deforestation during the construction phase could contribute to modifying the habitat of the Bicknell’s thrush and have an effect on its presence, at least over a short period.” They add that inventories were carried out this year to verify the presence of the species. “An avoidance approach is underway with the aim of optimizing the project and further reducing the impact on the thrush and its habitat. »
The same type of measure, which should make it possible not to touch “optimal habitats”, is planned in the case of the “Charlevoix sector”, so that the promoters do not see the presence of this bird as an obstacle to the realization of their project. “The independent experts assess that the residual impact of the project would be insignificant,” specifies Boralex, in a written response to the Duty. The company is developing the Des Neiges project with Hydro-Québec and Énergir.
The general director of Quebec birds, Jean-Sébastien Guénette, calls for the greatest caution before authorizing wind projects in the critical habitat of this species, listed for more than 10 years as being “threatened” under the Act species at risk.
“We have an important role to play in saving this species, since at least 50% of the world population is found in Quebec, but also 95% of the habitat suitable for nesting. We must therefore not lose this population, because that would increase the risk of extinction,” he argues.
He also warns of the impacts of deforestation in the sector. “Even if we do it outside the nesting period, it will be necessary to wait several years before finding a suitable habitat, since this thrush is very selective. »