High Frequency Rail
hfr-tgf
High Frequency Rail
hfr-tgf
Field Studies Overview
Why conduct field studies?
Field studies allow us to better understand current environmental, health, social and economic conditions. These provide points of reference that will help decision-makers understand how a project could change these conditions, and to prescribe specific protection if needed.
Environmental field studies help us to record and understand environmental conditions so that we can plan to protect them. Each study occurs outdoors and may involve both direct observation and data collection. These studies are iterative and will continue for many years. They will help inform any future impact assessment and regulatory review processes.
Where are we now?
We are in the pre-planning phase of the Impact Assessment, which will be followed by five more phases.
What field studies are being conducted?
In 2023, we plan to advance the following field studies:
Noise and Vibration (July - November)
Fish and Fish Habitat (July - November)
Air Quality Monitoring (July - December)
Water (July - October)
Wildlife Tracking (December)
Where are field studies taking place?
The 2023 field studies will take place along two railway routes. The first runs between Ottawa and de Beaujeu, just west of Montréal. The second runs from Laval to Québec City along the north side of the St. Lawrence River. As the project advances, other routes may be included, and more detailed studies will take place.
Noise Ontario
Fish Ontario
Wildlife Quebec
Air Quality
1
Wildlife
2
Water Quebec
Why are field studies happening now?
This large, complex project will require many environmental studies, and each requires careful thought. Some studies require extensive data that can take over a year to collect, while others can only happen within specific seasonal windows. Overall, we need to begin to identify and understand sensitive species and areas early, so we can plan adequately for them as we design the project. The information gathered through our early studies will also help determine where, when and how federal regulators will need to be involved. Our field studies will continue for many years.
Indigenous Knowledge
When Indigenous Knowledge is provided, it is one of the factors that must be considered during an impact assessment process. For VIA HFR, the knowledge and guidance of Indigenous communities and organizations will be critical to informing project plans and development. We will also seek guidance from Indigenous communities to ensure that we are being respectful and mindful of any Indigenous Knowledge we receive.
Latest Studies
Air Quality
An air quality study focuses on contaminants that might affect the air. This study will help HFR planners to protect air quality while building and operating the new railway.
Noise and Vibration
This study measures noise and vibration along a possible railway route. This knowledge will help HFR planners understand how to reduce potential harm during construction and operation.
Fish and Fish Habitat
A fish and fish habitat field study focuses on fish and where they live. The study will help HFR planners protect fish while building and operating the new railway.
Water
A water field study focuses on any waterway above ground including streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, oceans and man-made reservoirs. Studying water will help HFR planners protect waterways while building and operating the new railway.
HFR and You
Good planning involves the community. Decisions are better when many perspectives are considered.
Contact Us
General Information
1-833-681-2492
info@tgf-hfr.ca
Media Requests
1-833-681-2493
media@tgf-hfr.ca
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© VIA HFR - VIA TGF Inc. 2023
