Eagle Mountain - Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project
About this project
As a utility, meeting the energy needs of our customers is what FortisBC does every day.
That’s why when our customer Woodfibre LNG asked us if we could deliver natural gas to them, we began to explore how and proposed the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) project. And we also started talking with the community right away.
The proposed project will expand a portion of our existing natural gas transmission system, which was built in 1991 to serve Squamish, the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island.
It involves adding about 47 kilometres of new 24-inch gas pipeline from north of Coquitlam to the Woodfibre LNG site, and an additional three kilometres of pipe near Westwood Plateau in north Coquitlam.
Project overview
- 50 kilometres of new gas pipeline between Coquitlam and Squamish; majority of route alongside existing right of way to minimize environmental footprint
- Protecting Squamish Estuary by building a nine-kilometre tunnel to pass underneath
- New compressor station at Woodfibre LNG site and new equipment at Eagle Mountain Compressor Station
- Ongoing engagement with local communities since 2013
- Rigorous environmental reviews leading to BC Environmental Assessment Office and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) approvals in 2016
The proposed route
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Generally, the new gas pipeline will follow the existing gas pipeline route to limit new impacts to the environment along the route.
In some cases, following the existing route entirely will not be possible. Throughout project planning we've worked to minimize impacts and respond to feedback. Examples include:
- achieving the shortest possible route and the smallest overall footprint
- minimizing crossings of streams and rivers
- incorporating Indigenous, landowner and stakeholder input
- avoiding known archaeological or heritage sites
- avoiding sensitive terrain and environmental areas
We are continuing to engage with stakeholders, communities and Indigenous groups to minimize impacts, while also being safe and practical.
Take a closer look at LNG
By providing Woodfibre LNG with natural gas, this will allow them to produce liquefied natural gas, also known as LNG. It’s made from the same natural gas you use for cooking and heating in your home every day.
LNG is produced by cooling natural gas to -162 C, which transforms it into a colourless, non-toxic liquid that is much smaller in size. In this liquid state, it is stored and transported in double-walled insulated tanks.
It can then be used as a fuel for trucks and ships, or exported to communities overseas where it’s converted back to gas form to heat homes and businesses.
FortisBC has been working safely with LNG for more than 50 years, and travelling throughout BC doing live demonstrations and presentations to explain what LNG is.
As part of these safety demonstrations, our team explains how LNG is made and how it interacts with air, water and soil. FortisBC also trains emergency responders on how to handle an LNG emergency.
We’ve developed an LNG overview to help give you the facts about how LNG is one of the safest ways to deliver energy.
Squamish
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Coquitlam
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Rigorous environmental reviews and research
For more than eight years, we’ve been meeting with local residents, Indigenous groups, stakeholders, local government and the regulators to gather and incorporate feedback into various aspects of our environmental assessment.
On June 24, 2016, Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw Chiefs and Council voted to approve the project. On August 9, 2016, the provincial government issued an Environmental Assessment Certificate for the project.
Project changes approved
Since then, a number of project changes were proposed to reflect community feedback and technical advancements identified during detailed design. In fall 2021, the BC Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) approved these changes, followed by Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw’s approval in early 2022 as part of a harmonized review process with the EAO. These approvals amended both the Environmental Assessment Certificate and the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement. Learn more about these changes and what we proposed.
Condition management plans
We also continue to develop and refine the condition management plans that were included as part of the certificate. We anticipate completing these plans in 2022 and continue to address all other certificate conditions as the project progresses.
We will continue engaging with Indigenous groups, local stakeholders and the community as the project moves forward.
Protecting the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area
The 673-hectare Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area (WMA) plays an important ecological role and serves as habitat for wildlife. Our existing system has been operating underneath the WMA since 1991 safely and without incident.
To access the Woodfibre LNG site, a segment of the proposed expanded gas pipeline section needs to be installed underneath the WMA. We are committed to operating responsibly and mitigating potential environmental impacts.
In response to public and local Indigenous community input, FortisBC has proposed the following approach to installing the gas pipeline under the estuary:
- An underground tunnel would be built about 25 metres below the estuary waterbed. The new sections of gas pipeline will be installed within the tunnel.
- Tunnel construction would continue through the Monmouth Ridge Mountain and exit at the Woodfibre LNG site.
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Compressor stations
Compressor stations are one of the most important components of the natural gas transportation system. They perform the essential tasks of compressing the natural gas and regulating its pressure so it can flow through the system to our customers’ homes and businesses.
To provide service to Woodfibre LNG, we considered a number of factors, including feedback from the public, the District of Squamish and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw during the environmental assessment processes. We’ll continue to listen and respond as we move forward.
Squamish
We have also proposed to build a new compressor station in Squamish. The new Squamish Compressor Station will help keep the gas moving through our existing system as it makes its way to our customers on the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island.
Following extensive consultation and community feedback, we sought approval to relocate the Squamish compressor station to the Woodfibre LNG site from the previously proposed Mount Mulligan location. With this new site, the compressor station would be more than seven kilometres away from the nearest residences. The Woodfibre LNG property is already an industrial site. Constructing the compressor station at this location will result in less disturbance to the surroundings than at a previously undisturbed site like Mount Mulligan. We’ve also modified the design of the station to reduce the number of compressor units and overall horsepower.
Coquitlam
We would install two new electric powered compressor units at the existing Eagle Mountain compressor station in Coquitlam, reconfiguring the station to accommodate this expansion within the existing footprint. Manufacturers of these units have modified the products they offer since we received our Environmental Assessment Certificate in 2016, resulting in increased size and horsepower that eliminates the need for new excavation. The reconfiguration to allow the increased size of the units was approved by the Environmental Assessment Office and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw through a harmonized review process, and minimizes the environmental and visual impacts of this work.
Proposal for two pipes in the Squamish tunnel
We are in discussions with Indigenous Nations and regulators around a proposal to install an additional segment of pipeline in the tunnel being built under the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area near Squamish, as part of the Eagle Mountain - Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project.
Installing a second 24-inch pipeline in the tunnel would provide redundancy and reduce the risk of interrupting supply to Woodfibre LNG. This approach is consistent with FortisBC’s other existing large underwater crossings on the Vancouver Island Transmission System. The tunnel being built as part of the project will be backfilled following construction, meaning the natural gas pipeline in it will not be accessible post-construction.
There would be no increase in the volume of natural gas delivered to the Woodfibre LNG facility as a result of this proposal. The capacity of the new pipeline servicing Woodfibre LNG is limited by the existing natural gas pipeline segment within the Coquitlam Watershed, which is not being expanded as part of the Eagle Mountain - Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project.
This proposal would not change the tunnel size, location or construction workspace.
Anyone who has questions or wants to provide feedback can contact us anytime at 1-855-380-5784 or egp@fortisbc.com. We also invite the community to join us at one of our upcoming public information sessions, in Squamish on April 27 or Coquitlam on May 3.
EGP project changes approved
The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) have approved our amendment application for the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) project. These approvals are significant milestones for the project and are the result of a harmonized process between the EAO and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw in their parallel reviews.
“These changes reflect years of community engagement and detailed project planning” said Darrin Marshall, EGP project director at FortisBC. “It’s through listening and engagement that we’ve strengthened and refined this project, and we’re grateful for the input we’ve received.”
Approval of these amendments brings the EGP project a step closer to construction, and ultimately, to delivery of natural gas to the proposed Woodfibre LNG facility.
The approved changes include:
- a new location for the Squamish Compressor Station at the Woodfibre LNG site based on feedback from the local community;
- rerouting an eight-kilometre section of the new gas pipeline in Stawamus Valley to minimize impacts and reflect input from Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw;
- increasing the size of two planned compressor units at the Eagle Mountain Compressor Station and accommodating this expansion within the existing footprint; and,
- constructing an additional three-kilometre section of gas pipeline adjacent to the existing line, near the Eagle Mountain Compressor Station in Coquitlam, to add capacity and increase reliability of natural gas supply.
These changes will be reflected in the project’s provincial Environmental Assessment Certificate as well as the Environmental Assessment Agreement with Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw, both of which received initial approval in 2016.
We want to thank the community for their engagement with us to-date, and we look forward to continuing our engagement with Indigenous groups, stakeholders and local communities as the project progresses. To stay updated on the latest project news, sign up for our e-newsletter.
Proposed size increase for workforce lodging site
FortisBC is proposing to increase the size of our planned temporary workforce lodging site for the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) project. The proposal would increase the size of the temporary workforce lodge site from two hectares to seven hectares – addressing issues raised by the community around pressure on local housing, traffic congestion and community resources. Previous proposals had anticipated that the majority of the workforce would be housed locally rather than at the lodge.
Key details of the changes include:
- Expanding the workforce lodge site to seven hectares, ensuring FortisBC can house approximately 600 non-local workers at a single site.
- Adding additional onsite facilities such as lounge, first aid, exercise and recreation areas to reduce worker pressure on community facilities.
- The preferred location for the workforce lodge is a previously disturbed site south of Quest University.
FortisBC remains committed to hiring locally for the EGP project wherever possible. It is our priority to ensure that the local community has the opportunity to benefit from the project through jobs and material procurement, and to reduce potential pressure on local services from out-of-town workers.
Details regarding site construction and operations are currently in development, including gathering ongoing input from local community representatives and Indigenous groups. FortisBC anticipates submitting an application to amend our existing environmental approvals through the Environmental Assessment Office and Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) in 2022.
Join us for upcoming information sessions
We're hosting an information session in Squamish on April 27 and Coquitlam on May 3 to hear from the community and provide a project update.
Please join us to learn more, ask questions and share your thoughts. We’re committed to continuing to engage with the community as we prepare for construction, which we anticipate beginning in 2023.
Upcoming pre-construction activities in Squamish
We will be carrying out investigative activities ahead of construction from mid-March through mid-April in Squamish.
In order to mitigate traffic impacts on Loggers Lane and Queens Way during construction, we are planning to install sections of our gas pipeline by digging underground tunnels that we could push the gas line through. To support our design and planning, we’ll need to install monitoring equipment in three narrow, vertical holes at the following locations:
- Two vertical holes on FortisBC right of way along Finch Drive. There will be single-lane alternating closures on Finch Drive near Kingfisher Road and Loggers Lane to give our crews the space they need to work safely. Work will take place between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. with drilling activities expected to take approximately two days at each location. We will have traffic control personnel on site to help safely assist traffic.
- One vertical hole on a private property along Industrial Way near Queens Way. There will be no traffic impacts at this location.
We will also be drilling an additional five narrow, vertical holes on private land at the BC Rail property to learn more about the site’s soil conditions. This investigative work will support the design of the entry portal at the BC Rail property for an approximately nine-kilometre, underground tunnel to the Woodfibre LNG site. The tunnel will play an important role in protecting sensitive ecosystems and wildlife by passing beneath the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary.
Nearby residents and businesses are being notified in advance of this work, and may notice some larger equipment and machinery, as well as vibration and noise levels comparable to normal construction.
Update on tunnel component of the project
FortisBC awarded the contract for the tunnel component of the project to Frontier-Kemper Michels Joint Venture in February 2022. The contractor will be responsible for both designing and constructing the approximately nine-kilometre tunnel, which will play an important role in protecting sensitive ecosystems and wildlife in Squamish. FortisBC will use the tunnel to house the project’s proposed gas pipeline system about 25 metres below the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary waterbed.
Awarding the tunnel contract is an important step forward for the project, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2023. We’ll continue engaging Indigenous communities, local governments, residents, and businesses to incorporate feedback as the project progresses.
EAO decision on EGP project changes
The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) has approved project changes introduced to reflect community feedback and technical advancements. The approved changes will amend FortisBC’s existing Environmental Assessment Certificate, which the project received in 2016.
As part of the review process, the BC EAO and Squamish Nation have been working collaboratively to review the changes. We’re pleased to have the EAO’s approval, and look forward to learning of Squamish Nation’s decision, anticipated later this year.
Weather extends schedule for geotechnical investigations
Due to weather conditions in recent weeks, we’ve extended our timeline for geotechnical investigations near Squamish and in the Indian River Valley.
Weather permitting, we now anticipate completing the work on Mount Mulligan near Squamish by early November. Approximately two weeks of helicopter activity during the day is anticipated for these investigations. This work is related to the proposed gas pipeline and is not related to the Squamish Compressor Station, which FortisBC has proposed relocating to the Woodfibre LNG site.
For the one drill location near Hixon Creek in the Indian River Valley, we now anticipate work to begin at the end of October, subject to safe road conditions and favourable weather. We expect this work to be completed within a few days.
Proposed relocation of existing gas line northeast of Valleycliffe
As the project progresses, we are continuing to apply for a number of key permits. This includes an Oil and Gas Commission permit that will allow us to adjust a portion of our existing gas line northeast of the Squamish Valleycliffe area. In particular, we are proposing to decommission approximately 2.3 kilometres of our existing 10-inch gas line and replace it with 3.1 kilometres of new 10-inch gas line that will run alongside the new proposed project route. This relocation will reduce impacts to landowners by combining new and existing infrastructure.
Construction of this replacement pipe will coincide with the new 24-inch gas pipeline to minimize disruption. A consultation and notification package will be sent to recipients in proximity of this proposed replacement to provide further details.
Upcoming geotechnical investigations near Squamish and in the Indian River Valley
As we continue project planning, we will be carrying out geotechnical investigations on Mount Mulligan in the Squamish area and near Hixon Creek in the Indian River Valley. These investigations will involve drilling narrow, vertical holes so we can learn more about the subsurface soil and rock conditions.
On Mount Mulligan the investigation sites are along hard-to-access areas of the proposed project route, so we will be using helicopters to transport the equipment. This will minimize environmental disturbance and eliminate the need to build access roads. These geotechnical investigations are not related to the Squamish Compressor Station, which FortisBC has proposed relocating to the Woodfibre LNG site.
In the Indian River Valley we will be accessing the investigation area via existing forest service roads.
There will be a total of three drilling sites across two locations, these include:
- Two vertical holes near Ray Creek on the southern side of Mount Mulligan near Squamish. We expect this work to begin late August and continue through to early October with approximately two weeks of anticipated daytime helicopter activity.
- One vertical hole on our proposed right of way near Hixon Creek in the Indian River Valley. We anticipate work to begin mid-September and be completed in a few days.
To provide a safe landing area for the helicopter at the Mount Mulligan sites we will build a temporary platform. To do so, we will clear some vegetation over a space of approximately 325 square feet at each location, the majority of which will be on our existing rights of way. Environmental monitors will be onsite to ensure the work complies with environmental requirements.
We have been working closely with the regulators, local stakeholders, and Indigenous communities to develop this geotechnical investigation program, and will continue to engage these groups and keep the public informed as the work progresses.
Extension of Environmental Assessment Certificate approved
FortisBC has received approval of its application to extend the Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) for the project from the BC Environmental Assessment Office (EAO). This extension adds five years to the EAC, which was initially approved in 2016.
The approval is independent of our application for project amendments that are currently under review by both the EAO and Squamish Nation through a collaborative, harmonized process. We anticipate construction to begin in mid-2022, provided the proposed amendments are approved this year.
We’ve continued to build awareness and understanding of the project since 2016. This includes reflecting years of local community feedback and technical advancements in the project’s design, which have led to the changes currently under review.
We will continue to engage residents, stakeholders and Indigenous groups at every key step as the project progresses.
To learn more about the EAO’s extension process visit projects.eao.gov.bc.ca.
Environmental surveys in Squamish and Coquitlam
As project planning continues, FortisBC will be conducting environmental surveys in various locations in the District of Squamish and north Coquitlam area. These routine surveys to support project permitting include:
- Surveys in the District of Squamish near Finch Drive, Loggers Sports Grounds, the local RCMP detachment, and a couple of locations near Highway 99. We expect these surveys to occur in two parts, the first beginning in late May/early June and concluding in mid-June, and the second beginning late July and concluding in mid-August.
- Surveys in Coquitlam near Eagle Mountain Park, specifically, near the BC Hydro Meridian Substation on Eagle Mountain Drive in the area of the proposed electrical substation facility. We expect these surveys to begin in late July and conclude in early August.
The surveys involve collecting visual field data through wetland surveys, aquatics surveys, wildlife and wildlife habitat surveys, as well as identifying rare and invasive plant species. Our environmental consultants will complete the surveys on foot during daylight hours while utilizing existing access and trails where possible. No ground disturbance will be required.
We will continue to keep the public informed as the project progresses.
Upcoming field work at BC Rail property in Squamish
As our planning continues for the tunnel segment of the project, we will be performing a groundwater monitoring program to support this work.
This program will take place on private land at the BC Rail property in Squamish and will be carried out in three phases. The first phase involves the installation of groundwater monitoring wells, which is planned for early-to-mid December and will last approximately two weeks. This work will involve drilling and the installation of two-inch-wide wells at locations within the property.
The next phases will begin in early-2021 and will involve a pump test program and a groundwater monitoring program.
We will ensure that all work meets environmental requirements.
Recordings from fall Squamish and Coquitlam information sessions
This November and December we hosted four virtual information sessions as part of our community engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. Two of these sessions invited Squamish community members for an update on the project including topics related to our Environmental Assessment Certificate amendments near Squamish; providing opportunities to the community during construction; and the details of our Waste Discharge Permit application to the Oil & Gas Commission.
The remaining two sessions focused on Coquitlam, highlighting our proposed work to add two new electric powered compressor units at our Eagle Mountain compressor station, as well as plans to twin a three-kilometre section of our existing pipeline near Westwood Plateau.
During these sessions, the community asked many questions on a wide range of topics related to the project, and the work that we do as a company. A summary of these questions and answers and will be posted on our website once compiled. We will consolidate responses where similar questions were received.
For anyone who was unable to participate in either session, we have posted a recording of the November 18 session presentation in Squamish, and of the December 3 session in Coquitlam.
Coquitlam virtual information sessions
We’re hosting two virtual information sessions in early December as part of our community engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project.
We’ll provide an update on the project at both sessions. We’ll also talk about our proposed plan to add two new electric powered compressor units within the existing footprint of our Eagle Mountain compressor station in Coquitlam while minimizing the environmental and visual impact of the work. Also, we will discuss our proposal to add three kilometres of pipeline next to our existing pipeline near Westwood Plateau, which would increase capacity and reliability, will also be discussed.
Many of these developments have already been informed by community feedback. We look forward to updating you on our progress and answer any questions at our upcoming virtual information sessions.
Please join us:
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
- 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle3
Thursday, December 3, 2020
- 4 to 5:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle4
Following the information sessions, a recording of the presentation will be made available on the project website.
Can’t join us for an information session?
- Ask us a question or provide your feedback by phone or email.
- Call us at 1-855-380-5784
- Email us at egp@fortisbc.com
FortisBC applies for an Environmental Assessment Certificate extension
FortisBC is applying to extend our Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) for the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project, as it will currently expire in August 2021.
Since we initially received our provincial Environmental Assessment Certificate and Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement in 2016, we’ve been advancing the project and making progress in a number of areas. One notable undertaking in recent years has been our Environmental Assessment Certificate Amendment Application. This application contains four proposed amendments, which are the result of careful review, listening to community feedback, and further detailed design.
The application to extend our certificate is an opportunity to ensure that these years of engagement and careful review are reflected in the project.
We will continue to engage residents, stakeholders and Indigenous groups at every key step as the project progresses. This includes hosting upcoming virtual public information sessions this fall.
To learn more about the EAO’s extension process visit projects.eao.gov.bc.ca.
Squamish virtual information sessions
We’re hosting two virtual information sessions in November as part of our community engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project.
We’ll provide an update on the project at both sessions. We’ll also talk about our proposed new location for the Squamish compressor station; the proposed rerouting of an eight-kilometre section of the pipeline extension in Stawamus Valley to minimize impacts and consider input from the Squamish Nation; how we’ll provide opportunities to the community during construction, including the hiring of local and Indigenous contractors; and details of our Waste Discharge Permit application to the Oil & Gas Commission.
There will be opportunities for the community to get their questions answered and provide feedback.
Please join us:
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
- 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle1
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
- 4 to 5:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle2
Following the information sessions, a PDF of the PowerPoint presentation will be made available on the project website here.
Can’t join us for an information session?
- Ask us a question or provide your feedback by phone or email.
- Call us at 1-855-380-5784
- Email us at egp@fortisbc.com
Environmental Assessment Certificate amendments filed
We have submitted our application to amend the project’s Environmental Assessment Certificate, following months of planning and community engagement. As announced earlier this year, the amendments seek to include refinements in project design, incorporate feedback from Indigenous and local communities, and minimize potential project impacts.
Proposed changes include:
- the option of a new location for the Squamish compressor station at the Woodfibre LNG site;
- rerouting an eight-kilometre section of the pipeline in the Stawamus Valley;
- increasing the size of two planned compressor units at the Eagle Mountain compressor station and accommodating the expansion within the existing footprint; and,
- the addition of three-kilometres of pipeline near the Eagle Mountain compressor station.
In 2016, the project received both a provincial Environmental Assessment Certificate as well as a Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement following rigorous environmental review and extensive community engagement. We are now seeking approval from both bodies to amend the certificate and agreement based on our proposed changes.
We look forward to continued engagement with Indigenous groups, stakeholders, and local communities. This includes hosting upcoming public information sessions that will take place in mid-November.
Learn more about our amendments here.
Upcoming geotechnical work on forest service roads in Stawamus Valley and Indian River Valley
As our project planning continues, we are planning to carry out geotechnical work along forest service roads in the Stawamus Valley and Indian River Valley.
Geotechnical investigations involve drilling narrow, vertical holes so we can learn more about the subsurface soil and rock conditions. Beginning in mid-September, the work will start near the 25-kilometre post of the Stawamus/Indian River Forest Service Road. Geotechnical work and other geophysical investigations will take place at various other locations along the forest service road and existing FortisBC right of way, including Ray Creek and Hixon Creek.
Environmental monitors will be onsite to make sure the work meets environmental requirements, and all work spaces will be carefully cleaned up once we have finished. Partial access restrictions may be required along these forest service roads for this work to be completed safely. We anticipate finishing by early November.
Recording of August 13th virtual information session
Last week we hosted two virtual information sessions as part of our community engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. These sessions provided an update on the project and our preferred pipeline route through the Loggers Lane East neighbourhood.
During these sessions, the community asked many questions on a wide range of topics related to the project, and the work that we do as a company. We’re committed to providing answers and responses, and will post these on our website once these have been compiled.
For anyone who was unable to participate in either session, we have posted a recording of the August 13th presentation and Q&A.
Virtual information sessions
We’re hosting two virtual information sessions as part of our community engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. These sessions will provide an update on the project and our preferred pipeline route through the Loggers Lane East neighbourhood. There will also be opportunities for the community to get their questions answered and provide feedback on the project.
Please join us:
Wednesday, August 12, 2020
- 6 – 7:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle1
A PDF of the PowerPoint presentation is also accessible here
Thursday, August 13, 2020
- 4 – 5:30 p.m.
- Online presentation
- Password: Eagle2
There will be a short presentation about the project followed by a question and answer period.
Can’t join us for an information session?
- Ask us a question or provide your feedback by phone or email.
- Call us at 1-855-380-5784
- Email us at egp@fortisbc.com
Upcoming proposed changes to require amendments to Environmental Assessment Certificate
As part of our work to refine planning, today FortisBC is introducing proposed changes to the project. These changes are based on ongoing engineering design and address anticipated impacts to the community during construction and operations. They also incorporate feedback we received from Indigenous and local communities. The proposed changes include:
- A new location for the Squamish compressor station, previously proposed for Mount Mulligan, at the Woodfibre LNG site;
- Rerouting an eight-kilometre section of the pipeline extension in Stawamus Valley to minimize impacts and reflect input from Squamish Nation;
- Increasing the size of the two new electric powered compressor units at the existing Eagle Mountain compressor station in Coquitlam, and reconfiguring the station to accommodate this expansion within the existing footprint;
- Constructing an additional three-kilometre section of pipeline adjacent to the existing pipeline, near the Eagle Mountain compressor station, to increase reliability of natural gas supply to Woodfibre LNG.
These changes will require amendments to the Environmental Assessment Certificate received in 2016, as well as approval from Squamish Nation.
You can learn more about these changes and provide feedback at upcoming information sessions in 2020. Details for these sessions will be confirmed in the weeks ahead.
Upcoming geotechnical work in Coquitlam
Beginning in early November, FortisBC will start carrying out geotechnical investigations for the project’s facilities. This involves drilling narrow, vertical holes to learn more about the underground layers of soil and rock.
This early investigative work will be carried out in Coquitlam, at the site of our new FortisBC high voltage substation. The site of this new facility is adjacent to the existing BC Hydro Meridian Substation, and will eventually provide additional power to our existing Eagle Mountain compressor station.
We will ensure that the work meets environmental requirements, and we anticipate it will take approximately one week to complete. Geotechnical investigations will also take place in mid-November at the Eagle Mountain compressor station property and will take approximately three weeks to complete.
Upcoming geotechnical work within District of Squamish
In early November, we will be carrying out additional geotechnical investigations to fine-tune our plans. This includes work within the District of Squamish, including two locations along Industrial Way and Finch Drive. This work involves drilling narrow, vertical holes so we can learn more underground conditions.
As part of this work, temporary partial lane closures will be required on Industrial and Finch, near the Highway 99 intersection, to ensure the safety of the public and our contractors. Beginning at the start of next week, work will take approximately two days at each location and we anticipate finishing in early November.
One of our contractors will also conduct a field survey at locations along Finch Drive in early November. This will assist in our project planning and detailed engineering, and this work should be finished by mid-November.
Upcoming community engagement
As part of our engagement on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project, we’ll be meeting this fall with community leaders and associations to understand their perspectives. Our initial focus will be on potential impacts related to workforce accommodation and construction. We will be engaging the broader community at public information sessions in early 2020
Geotechnical work begins on forest service roads in Indian River Valley
As our project planning continues, we are now starting to carry out geotechnical work along forest service roads in the Indian River Valley.
Geotechnical investigations involve drilling narrow, vertical holes so we can learn more about the soil and rock. Beginning this week, work will take place at various locations between the start of the Indian River forest service road and approximately three kilometres north of the Indian River – Hixon Creek forest service roads junction.
Environmental monitors will be onsite to make sure the work meets environmental requirements, and all work spaces will be carefully cleaned up once we have finished. Access may be restricted along these forest service roads, and work is anticipated to be finished by mid-October.
Upcoming geotechnical work on forest service roads in Indian River Valley
As we continue our project planning, we will be carrying out geotechnical work along forest service roads in the Indian River Valley during the summer months.
Geotechnical investigations involve drilling narrow, vertical holes so we can learn more about the soil and rock. Beginning in mid-July, work will take place between the start of the Indian River forest service road and approximately three kilometres north of the Indian River – Hixon Creek forest service roads junction.
Environmental monitors will be onsite to make sure the work meets environmental requirements, and all work spaces will be carefully cleaned up once we have finished. Access may be restricted along these forest service roads, and work is anticipated to be finished by mid-September.
Upcoming geotechnical work on private properties
We’re continuing to fine-tune our engineering and design for the project, and beginning this week we will be carrying out geotechnical investigations. This involves drilling narrow, vertical holes to learn more about the underground layers of soil and rock.
This early investigative work will be carried out on private land at the BC Rail property and the Woodfibre LNG site. The information we gather will help us plan the pipeline tunnel underneath the Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area.
We will ensure that the work meets environmental requirements, and we anticipate it will take approximately three weeks to complete.
We are planning for additional geotechnical work that will take place at locations along the pipeline route in 2019, and we will continue to provide updates as they become available.
Squamish Nation approves economic benefit agreement
The Squamish Nation’s decision to approve the economic agreement is a significant and positive milestone for FortisBC’s Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. This approval has been issued as part of the Squamish Nation’s environmental approval process and FortisBC is proud to be a part of this negotiation, which is the first of its kind in Canada.
As part of its agreement with Squamish Nation, FortisBC is committed to delivering comprehensive economic benefits, including employment and training opportunities. In addition, we will be undertaking studies around improvements to energy efficiency and infrastructure location.
Join us for free mini golf and BBQ lunch
We’re proud to be part of the Squamish community and we want to meet our neighbours. Join us for a free game of mini golf, a BBQ lunch, fun prizes and giveaways.
Date: Sunday, June 24, 2018
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: WhistlePunk Hollow Adventure Golf
1940 Centennial Way, Squamish
Squamish Community Office – Update
While our current phase of planning work is ongoing, we have reduced our presence and community office hours at our location on Cleveland Avenue. We value the feedback we receive from local stakeholders and residents, and we will be available by scheduling an appointment in advance. Contact us at talkingenergy@fortisbc.com.
Squamish Community office reopens
FortisBC and Woodfibre LNG celebrated the reopening of our Squamish Community Office on June 14. The event celebrated the continued support we have received from the local community, and will be open from Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
FortisBC explains why trees were removed for safety during geotechnical investigations
Viviana, our community relations manager, addresses some of the geotechnical work that took place during the fall of 2016, about halfway between the Woodfibre LNG site and the Squamish Estuary. She summarizes the steps we took in advance of the clearing work that took place, as well as the steps we took to mitigate our impact to that area.
FortisBC completes geotechnical work on the Squamish dike
Spit Road re-opens to pedestrian and vehicle traffic now that FortisBC crews have completed geotechnical investigations along the Squamish dike.
The subsurface data collected over the past several weeks will help us properly manage tunnel construction underneath the Skwelwilem Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management area for the Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Pipeline Project. Work was suspended when crews encountered a pocket of naturally occurring gases, and notified safety and regulatory authorities.
We appreciate the public's patience.
Woodfibre LNG authorized to continue with proposed LNG export facility
Woodfibre LNG Limited announce that they have secured approval to move forward with their LNG export facility, to be located near Squamish, BC.
This is a positive step for FortisBC's Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project. We will continue to work on design and permitting of the pipeline to serve Woodfibre's facility.
FortisBC's proposed Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project is a 47-kilometre expansion to our existing Vancouver Island natural gas transmission system to deliver gas to the Woodfibre LNG facility in Squamish. Earlier this year the Eagle Mountain Gas Pipeline project received environmental approval from the Squamish First Nation and an Environmental Assessment Certificate from the provincial government.
We will continue our discussions with Indigenous groups, stakeholders, and the public as the project moves forward.
Our response to incident at Squamish Community Office
The safety of our employees and the public, and the security of our assets is FortisBC's number one priority.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, November 3rd, a small fire was intentionally set at our Community Office in Squamish. Thankfully, there were no injuries as a result of this incident. We are supporting Squamish Fire Rescue and Squamish RCMP as they continue their investigation.
Our Community Office has been a place of peaceful and constructive dialogue for more than two years. We know that this incident is not representative of the community of Squamish.
We are grateful to Squamish Fire Rescue and Squamish RCMP or their quick response to this incident.
Provincial government issues Environmental Assessment Certificate
The provincial government grants the Eagle Mountain-Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project with environmental assessment approval. Read the official release.
Squamish Nation Chiefs and Council voted to approve an Environmental Assessment Agreement
Squamish Nation Chiefs and Council vote to approve an Environmental Assessment Agreement for the proposed Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project and issue an Environmental Certificate to FortisBC. Read the news release.
Public comment period on FortisBC addenda on final report to Environmental Assessment Office
A public comment period for our addenda on our final report takes place from September 24 to October 15, 2015. Comments helped the BC Environmental Assessment Office ensure that all environmental, economic, social, heritage and health concerns related to our proposed addenda have been part of the assessment process.
District of Squamish open house
View the materials from the open house hosted by the District of Squamish.
Open house in Coquitlam
FortisBC representatives host an open house in Coquitlam to support the Environmental Assessment Office public comment period.
Open house in Squamish
FortisBC representatives host an open house in Squamish to support the Environmental Assessment Office public comment period.
How will you protect environmentally sensitive areas during construction?
We are committed to delivering this project in an environmentally responsible manner, and will work with experts, consultants, Indigenous communities, and local groups every step of the way to achieve this.
Throughout project planning, we’ve taken a number of steps to avoid disturbance to environmentally sensitive areas such as the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area (WMA). This includes constructing an underground, nine-kilometre tunnel that will house the gas pipeline from the BC Rail property in Squamish to the Woodfibre LNG site. In order to protect sensitive ecosystems and wildlife, the tunnel will be constructed approximately 30 metres below the surface of the WMA and continue under the Monmouth Ridge Mountain, resurfacing at the Woodfibre LNG site.
In addition to these steps, the project has undergone a rigorous environmental review process. We received environmental assessment approvals in August 2016 when the BC Environmental Assessment Office approved the project and issued an Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC). The Squamish Nation also voted in 2016 to approve the project under an Environmental Assessment Agreement following their own environmental assessment.
For more than seven years we have met with local residents, stakeholders, Indigenous groups, local government and the regulators to gather and incorporate feedback into our environmental assessment application and proposed amendments. We will continue to meet with these groups as we develop and refine a number of environment-related condition management plans included as part of our EAC.
We believe in leaving the places where we work in the same or better condition. This approach will guide our restoration efforts once construction is complete.
Answered on:
Jun 15, 2021
How will FortisBC ensure the gas pipeline is safe?
The safety of the public and our employees has always been, and will continue to be, our top priority.
FortisBC has safely owned and operated natural gas pipelines within British Columbia for over 60 years with a present-day network of natural gas infrastructure that spans 49,000 kilometres. This includes our infrastructure that extends north and west from Coquitlam en route to Vancouver Island since its original construction 30 years ago.
When designing and operating new gas pipelines, FortisBC upholds our excellent safety record by ensuring we meet or exceed the regulations set out by the British Columbia Oil & Gas Commission and applicable standards outlined by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). We also strictly adhere to an Integrity Management Plan, which includes activities such as monitoring our transmission system 24-hours a day, 365 days a year; conducting regular inspections; and using highly advanced technology to gather detailed information from within our pipeline systems to monitor gas line condition.
These and other activities help to ensure that our gas system assets are suitable for the continued safe, environmentally responsible and reliable service throughout the whole life-cycle of our natural gas infrastructure.
Answered on:
Mar 15, 2021
As a contractor and/or vendor, how can I express interest in working on the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project?
If you are interested in providing goods or services to this project, please complete our procurement form.
Answered on:
Aug 6, 2021
When will the project be constructed?
We anticipate construction work on the project will begin in 2023 and include preparation activities such as clearing, fencing and enabling road access. Anticipated timelines for the three main components of the project are listed below.
- Tunnel component: construction is anticipated to start in early 2023 and last until the end of 2025, with crews working at both the Woodfibre LNG and BC Rail property sites.
- Pipeline component: construction is anticipated to begin in 2023 and finish by 2025. Construction will be scheduled to avoid the peak tourist summer season in the Squamish area wherever possible.
- Compressor stations: construction of the Squamish Compressor Station and at the existing Eagle Mountain Compressor Station are expected to begin in 2023. We anticipate completing construction on both facilities in 2025.
Updated February 25, 2022
Answered on:
Jul 5, 2021
Where can I get more information about the project?
You can find more information on our project overview page at talkingenergy.ca/egp. This page provides a more detailed view of the project including maps, an LNG basics video, and graphics that describe tunnel construction. You can also sign up for our Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project e-newsletter to get the latest updates.
Answered on:
Jun 15, 2021
Where will the Squamish Compressor Station be located?
In response to feedback from the public and other stakeholders, FortisBC proposed in 2020 an alternative location for the Squamish Compressor Station as one of four amendments to our Environmental Assessment Certificate. This alternative location would move the compressor station directly to the already industrial Woodfibre LNG site, ensuring more than seven kilometres’ distance from the nearest Squamish residences.
The approved Mount Mulligan site remains a suitable location for the Squamish Compressor Station. However, we began evaluating other options as a way to respond to the feedback we heard from the community.
Answered on:
Jun 15, 2021
Why are you building this project?
As a utility, delivering energy to our customers is what FortisBC does. When one of our customers, Woodfibre LNG, approached us to provide natural gas to their facility, we put together a comprehensive plan to meet that request, which ultimately resulted in the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline (EGP) project.
In addition to providing energy for Woodfibre LNG, we have designed this project with the long-term energy needs of our Sea-to-Sky, Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island customers in mind. This project will contribute to long-term supply reliability by adding capacity through the new pipeline and ensuring energy demands are met today, and well into the future.
Answered on:
Jun 11, 2021
What noise impacts will accompany the Eagle Mountain Compressor Station expansion in Coquitlam?
We estimate that proposed changes to the Eagle Mountain Compressor Station expansion will result in a two-decibel increase from the currently approved expansion. The proposed changes will allow us to accommodate the expansion within the station’s existing footprint, reducing environmental and visual impacts from the original plan. The total estimated sound level will remain below the level defined by the BC Oil and Gas Commission (BCOGC) in its BC Noise Control Best Practices Guideline.
Once the compressor station is operational, a number of noise mitigation measures will be implemented, such as:
- Coordinating planned maintenance activities so that any gas venting takes place during daytime hours;
- Preventative maintenance to reduce frequency of station shutdown and venting; and,
- Optimizing pipeline system operations to favour the use of the new electric compressors as the main units, with gas compressors acting as peak or backup units only. This approach may reduce noise below the levels they are at today.
To continue monitoring sound levels, FortisBC will incorporate monitoring measures in our operational management plan for the station.
Answered on:
Dec 2, 2020
How will FortisBC ensure the compressor stations are safe?
Safety is our top priority at FortisBC. Compressor stations are safe and coexist in communities across the province. They maintain the pressure of natural gas in our system and help move the natural gas to our customers’ homes and businesses. We have a detailed Process Safety Management program that underpins all of our compressor station plans and practices. This program contributes to safe operations, reliability, and environmental protection, and covers planning, construction, and operations. It also ensures we maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements and ensures we are managing our gas infrastructure consistently across our system.
Answered on:
Dec 2, 2020
What are FortisBC’s workforce accommodation plans in the Squamish area?
A workforce accommodation strategy is currently under development. We have been in close contact with the District of Squamish, Squamish Nation, and various community leaders to ensure the workforce accommodation strategy mitigates potential impacts, provides economic opportunity to the community and incorporates the feedback we’ve heard. We will update the community as soon as we have more information to share.
Answered on:
Nov 17, 2020
Indigenous engagement
Indigenous feedback helps to improve our Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline project
We value working directly with local First Nations to listen to their concerns and understand their perspective. We’re engaging with the following First Nations to discuss the expansion project details and listen to their questions and concerns:
Community engagement
One of our top priorities is to engage local communities so that they understand the work we’re doing
Keeping the community informed
We value the importance of keeping the community informed about the project. One of the ways we do this is by meeting with community groups and stakeholders to provide project updates. A recent example of this is our presentation to the Rotary Club of Squamish in June 2021. You can view our presentation from this update here.
Tri-Cities Chamber and SHARE Society food drive
We joined and supported the Tri-Cities Chamber for their 2021 Christmas Luncheon, which featured a food drive for the SHARE Family & Community Services Society. In total, the drive collected over 600 pounds of food for families in need. We were thrilled to partner with the Chamber on this initiative, and will continue looking for similar opportunities to give back to the communities where we live and work.
Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival
Our team joined the Squamish community at the Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival, which was back in action in September 2021. We were able to connect with hundreds of attendees and enjoyed sharing information and answering questions about FortisBC and the EGP project. Congratulations to all the competitors, and we can’t wait to see the community at this event in future years.
A conversation with Bryan Couture
The Squamish Day Loggers Sports Festival celebrates the connection between Squamish and local industry. We spoke with Bryan Couture in 2016, then-president of the Squamish Days Loggers Sports Association, about the importance of the event to the community and how industry growth can benefit Squamish.
Questions from the community during 2020
We know you have questions, and our team is here to provide answers. In 2020, we held several virtual information sessions in Squamish and Coquitlam to ensure interactive opportunities for the public to ask questions and learn more about the project.
Our team compiled 30 questions from our August update to the Squamish community which can be accessed here. We also compiled over 50 questions from all six sessions which can be accessed here.
We’ll continue to keep the public informed as the project progresses.
FortisBC hosts another fun family event in Squamish community
In June 2018, we sponsored a free mini-golf and barbecue event at the WhistlePunk Hollow Adventure RV Park for the community of Squamish. More than 100 people visited our booth and learned more about our natural gas services and our project in the area.
Community grants support local initiatives
At FortisBC, we serve more than 135 communities across the province. Giving back to the communities where our over 2,400 employees live and work is an important part of our efforts to create a sustainable future for British Columbians.
We’ve been a part of the Squamish community for over 30 years. And we take our role as a good corporate citizen very seriously. The local recipients of our community investment grants include a wide-range of organizations that are working hard to make Squamish and the Sea-to-Sky region a better place to live.
