IMPACT ASSESSMENTS (HRIA & AIA)

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When an activity may result in damage or destruction of a historical resource, the individual or company involved may be required to conduct an HRIA.  Big Muddy Consulting will conduct the HRIA then submit a report to the Heritage Conservation Branch. Once submitted, recommendations provided within the report will be reviewed. After the review has been completed the Heritage Resource Branch will notify the developer that either clearance has been granted, or, due to the presence of archaeological or palaeontological sites additional HRIA requirements are needed. Once all HRIA requirements have been completed, heritage clearance is given for the development to proceed

All activities that may impact a Historical resource must apply for Historical Resources Act approval. If it is determined that an approval is required for a project, a Historic Resources Application must be submitted through the Online Permitting and Clearance system.  Following the approval of the Historic Resources Application the individual or company undertaking the activity may be required by the province to conduct an HRIA. Big Muddy Consulting will conduct the HRIA then submit a report to the Historical Resources Management  Branch. In most cases, the assessment work must be completed before the onset of land disturbance, but occasionally studies can happen in conjunction with certain development activities.

During an AIA, sites are located and recorded, and site significance is evaluated to assess the nature and extent of expected impacts. AIAs also include recommendations to manage the expected impact of property development on the site. We will meet with project proponents to provide project-specific clarification and interpretation of the process. Flexibility can be expected in the staging of AIAs and management studies, in the level of detail at which these studies are undertaken, and in the reporting requirements, depending on the project.

If development activities such as harvesting trees, excavating utility trenches, or other ground disturbing activities need to be conducted within the boundaries of a recorded archaeological site, a Site Alteration Permit will also be required.