Vancouver Fraser Port Authority Environmental Programs | Creosote Pile Removal and Disposal

Project status
Permit amendment issued

In February 2021, a permit amendment was issued to Tsleil-Waututh Nation on behalf of Vancouver Fraser Port Authority Environmental Programs to extend the validity period of PER permit No. 19-022 from March 31, 2021 to February 28, 2022. The approved Creosote Pile Removal and Disposal project is located in Indian Arm, BC, on waters managed by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.

About the project and the proposed amendment

Tsleil-Waututh Nation on behalf of Vancouver Fraser Port Authority Environmental Programs proposes to remove abandoned creosote piles, dock debris and a derelict crane along Indian Arm. The Project consists of removing 159 piles, 3 docks, 1 crane and other debris fragments at various locations in Indian River Estuary, Iron Bay, Buntzen Bay, Farrer Cove, and Granite Falls. Works will be completed by spud barge and piles will be removed by vibratory hammer and chain. Piles in Indian River Estuary and Buntzen Bay will be removed at high tide to prevent barge grounding. Some piles in Indian River Estuary may be cut at mudline at low tide, due to the deteriorated natures of the piles. Removed creosote piles and other collected debris will be transported by barge and disposed of at an appropriate waste facility.

The Project was approved prior to the coming into force of the Impact Assessment Act and was not previously posted on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry. The amendment request was posted on the registry with a public comment period between  January 6 and February 4, 2021.

The permit was originally valid until March 31, 2021. Due to COVID-19, equipment and operator time were not available to complete the project prior to permit expiry. An extension until February 28, 2022 was requested. Work would take place during the least risk window for fish and fish habitat, between August 16, 2021 and February 28, 2022.

Contact information