A Phase II environmental site assessment (ESA) was conducted to evaluate potential areas of environmental concern identified during a Phase I ESA; specifically, an on-site feedlot and off-site adjacent properties to the east (cardlock, oilfield services). The work entailed both soil and groundwater sampling for potential contaminants of concern. Based on the findings of the Phase II ESA (i.e. soil and groundwater chemistry results), no further environmental investigation is warranted prior to proceeding with development. 

A desktop Biophysical Assessment was conducted for the development lands. This assessment identified two non-permanent waterbodies and two non-permanent drainages, which are permitted to be removed through an application to Alberta Environment and Parks under the Water Act. The Water Act applies to wetlands, waterbodies, and watercourses and approval is required to impact any of these features. The proposed development lands also contain mature trees suitable for some nesting raptor species, including the species of conservation concern, prairie falcon, which is known to occur in this area; as such, these existing mature trees may be integrated into the development where practical. 

A groundwater supply evaluation is being conducted by a qualified hydrogeologist on the proposed development. Water is proposed to be supplied to a commercial development via water wells installed at each commercial lot. The objective of the evaluation is to ascertain whether County-stipulated groundwater resources may be available to service the development without adversely impacting quality and quantity of groundwater within the development and existing users in the surrounding area. This assessment is an initial step in determining aquifer yield at water wells installed at each lot at the development. Currently a cumulative effects assessment is underway to assess potential maximum pumping rates attainable if multiple wells were operating simultaneously, such that adverse impacts to proposed and existing users does not occur. Ultimately, each well will need to be assessed by installing, testing, and reporting in support of a licence application to Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) by each lot owner. This work is required to provide proposed and existing users assurances that adverse impacts will not occur.