Draft Terms of Reference for the Biophysical Component Study of the Petitcodiac River Causeway EIA

For Immediate Release

July 31, 2003

Draft Terms of Reference for the Biophysical Component Study of the Petitcodiac River Causeway EIA are now available and can be reviewed or downloaded at: www.petitcodiac.com . Print copies can also be obtained free of charge by calling (506) 855 3070 or 1 888 638 7700.

The document describes how aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric data needed for the Environmental Impact Assessment will be collected as the study proceeds. The biophysical aspect of the study is focused on a wide range of issues, from shore bird habitat and climate patterns to fish passage, urban wastewater dispersion, sediment sampling, wildlife populations and the potential impact of the former Moncton landfill on water quality in the river.

“Planning for the Biophysical Component has been underway for some time and we’ve received some very useful input from technical experts, regulators, community representatives and local residents throughout the watershed,” said Study Facilitator Jacques Paynter.

“Much of this feedback has come from informal discussions, interviews, and group meetings, as well as by email or through our telephone ‘hot line. Our public workshop in Moncton also gave participants a chance to raise questions directly with Study Team members who will be conducting the actual investigations.”

The Terms of Reference function as a detailed workplan for the study on acquatic, terrestrial and atmospheric issues. “ We’re encouraging all interested members of the public to review this draft and provide any further comments they might have on the approach we’re taking, before the final version is adopted, “ said Mr. Paynter.

Public input on the Draft Terms of Reference for the Biophysical Component should be forwarded to the Study Team no later than September 10 at the numbers and addresses listed below:

Jacques Paynter – AMEC Earth & Environmental Ltd.
Tel:  (506) 855-3070    1-888-638-7700
Fax:  (506) 857-9974
E-Mail: jacques.paynter@amec.com
Mail: 1133 St. George Blvd., Moncton, NB E1E 4E1