Notice of Study Commencement - Municipal Class Environmental Assessment for a New Water Storage Facility

THE PROJECT: The Township of Huron-Kinloss completed a Servicing Master Plan in 2023, which included a review of existing and future water servicing needs for the Lakeshore Drinking Water System (LDWS). The LDWS services the lands west of Lake Range Drive, from Point Clark to the boundary with the Municipality of Kincardine. 

The examination of the LDWS in the Master Plan recommended additional water storage. Construction of a new water storage facility triggers the need for a Schedule ‘B’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) to evaluate options related to an additional water storage facility for the LDWS. Additional water storage is required to meet design guidelines for drinking water systems set out by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). Based on preliminary analysis completed as part of the Master Plan, a new storage facility is required within the north pressure zone of the LDWS (see map). Determining the preferred location of the storage facility will be part of the EA process.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS: The planning for this project follows the environmental assessment process set out for Schedule B activities under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) process.  The purpose of the process is to identify potential environmental impacts associated with the project and to plan for appropriate mitigation of any impacts.  The process includes consultation with the public, stakeholders, First Nation and Métis communities, and government review agencies. 

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT: Public input and comments are invited for incorporation into the planning and design of this project. Initial comments and questions are welcomed and will be received by August 6, 2025, at the address listed below.  Any comments collected in conjunction with the study will be maintained on file for use during the project and may be included in the project documentation. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record. A public information meeting regarding this project is expected to be held at a future date.

For further information on this project please contact the consulting engineers: 

B.M. Ross and Associates: 62 North Street, Goderich, Ontario, N7A 2T4
Telephone (519) 524-2641
Lisa Courtney, Environmental Planner (e-mail: lcourtney@bmross.net)

John Yungblut, Director of Public Works
Township of Huron-Kinloss