Proposed Grizzly Extension Pipeline and Weejay Lateral Project in British Columbia and Alberta receives environmental assessment approval

HULL - November 13, 2002 - The Honourable David Anderson, Minister of the Environment, today announced that the Westcoast Energy Inc. proposal to build the Grizzly extension pipeline and Weejay lateral pipeline, in northeast British Columbia and northwest Alberta, does not require further assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. Minister David Anderson has referred the project to the federal responsible authorities, the National Energy Board (the Board) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), for appropriate action.

The Minister determined that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, provided Westcoast Energy Inc. implements the mitigation measures outlined in the comprehensive study report, and that public concern is insufficient to warrant a referral to a mediator or a review panel. The Minister based his decision on the following:

• the comprehensive study report, including the conclusions and recommendations, submitted by the Board and DFO;
• public comments received during the 30-day consultation period, and the Board and DFO's response to the comments;
• the implementation of mitigation measures, including an access management plan; and
• the implementation of a follow-up program.

The proposed Grizzly extension pipeline would extend the existing Grizzly raw gas transmission system in B.C. by approximately 109.5 km to a producer well in Alberta. The proposed 5 km Weejay lateral pipeline would connect a producer well in B.C. to kilometre post 43.2 of the proposed Grizzly extension pipeline. This project would allow Westcoast Energy Inc. to connect additional gas reserves in the Ojay-Weejay area of B.C. and the Narraway areas of Alberta to its existing pipeline system. Over two thirds of the pipeline will be in B.C., with the remainder in Alberta.

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The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency administers the federal environmental assessment process, which identifies the environmental effects of proposed projects and measures to address those effects, in support of sustainable development.

For more information:

Elise Dhaussy
Senior Communications Advisor
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
Tel: (819) 953-4054
Fax: (819) 953-2891
E-mail: elise.dhaussy@ceaa-acee.gc.ca