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17. Black Bear

The black bear is common in the Landscape Region and throughout Labrador. Since it is at the top of the food chain, and requires a large home range, the black bear is an example of an umbrella species. This means its continued existence implies that many species below it in the food chain are also healthy. Black bears are of cultural importance to Innu and Inuit and have spiritual significance to the Innu. The Innu demonstrate respect to black bears by referring to them as Nimushum or Nukum (grandfather or grandmother) and by treating the carcass and den site in a ritualistic manner (Armitage 1990: 131).
 

17.1 Existing Environment

"These animals are sacred, especially the black bear. The black bear can be dangerous when not handled properly. It must be respected at all times. This animal can hear and understand people when they speak. If the person is gossiping about the animal, the black bear will know what he is saying". P. Rich, The Voisey's Bay News, July 1996:14.

The black bear is found throughout most of Canada and currently occupies about 85 percent of its historic range (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). Black bears have recently extended their range northward in Labrador to include barren ground habitats as far north as Nachvak Fjord (Veitch and Harrington 1994). All black bears are omnivorous and share certain common characteristics, such as denning in the fall and subsequent emergence in spring. However, it has been suggested that barren ground black bears have larger home ranges and heavier reliance on protein than their forest-dwelling counterparts (Harrington 1994).

Black bears occur throughout the Quebec-Labrador peninsula and have been observed in all land regions (Western Plateau, Central Ranges, Fraser River, Saglek/Hopedale, Mistastin Lake and Coastal) of the Landscape Region. They have been observed on the sea ice and coastal islands, in barrens, and forest (JWEL 1997). Evidence of denning has been found in barren and forest habitats, both near the coast and inland.
 

17.1.1 Environmental Assessment Boundaries

Capitalized terms used (such as Landscape Region and VBNC Claim Block) may be defined in other chapters. Some terms and phrases used may have different definitions in other chapters depending upon the context in which they are used, for example, Assessment Area.

Project activities will take place within habitat used by black bears in the Landscape Region, which is the Black Bear Assessment Area within which environmental effects will be predicted (Figure 17.1). VBNC studies focused on bears that were fitted with radio-collars after capture and then released in the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block. However this environmental assessment for black bears considers the bear population that occupies the entire Landscape Region because bears move in and out of the VBNC Claim Block, using various types of habitat.
 

Figure 17.1 Black Bear Assessment Area

17.1.1.1 Administrative Boundaries

The provincial Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods (Wildlife Division) is responsible for the management of the black bear as a game species. Labrador is currently divided into three black bear management zones, with the Landscape Region falling within the George River Management Zone. Provincial residents may purchase a hunting permit, entitling the holder to five black bears per year. A separate permit (no harvest limit) is required for trapping black bears.
 
 

17.1.1.2 Technical Boundaries

The 1996 population estimate was based on the number of known individuals within the Landscape Region, as determined by capturing and marking bears and other observations within the VBNC Claim Block. Because no single method is considered to be accurate by itself (Lindzey 1987), bait trapping, culvert traps and ground-tracking techniques were used to estimate the black bear population.
 
 

17.1.2 Methods

Black bear studies were conducted by VBNC from 1995-1997. With the assistance of the Wildlife Division, bears were captured, marked with an ear tag, and fitted with telemetry collars. Up to ten collared bears at any one time were monitored using intensive aerial and ground-tracking, from June 1996-June 1997. This research used standard VHF (Very High Frequency) and GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. Incidental observations of black bears were recorded by the study team and camp personnel during 1995-1997 to document bear activity and habitat use.
 
 

17.1.3 Existing Conditions

There is substantial information on black bears in general. Specific knowledge on black bears in Newfoundland and Labrador is available from Aboriginal knowledge and scientific literature. VBNC studies were undertaken during 1995-1997 to determine the baseline characteristics of bears living within the Landscape Region. The following discussion uses information from all of these sources to provide a description of the existing black bear population.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the black bear population has been considered abundant and stable. Throughout North America, black bears occupy about 85 percent of their historical range and are now absent from southern parts of the continent.
 
 

17.1.3.1 Habitat

Participant in LIA study: "The black bears, they had the time of their lives when the capelin come ashore in the spring. There always was a lot of bears in that bay [Voisey's Bay]. One summer we had 12 in a trap." (Williamson 1997:16)

Voisey's Bay has been known as an important area for black bears (Williamson 1997). Black bears use forest, barren, and sea ice habitats in the Landscape Region during the spring. During the summer and fall, black bears use forest, barrens, and river habitats (JWEL 1997).

The black bear is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plant and animal matter. Black bears have been known to eat almost anything available to them (Black Bear Management Workshop 1997:4). Due to the flexibility in its diet, the food requirements of a black bear can often be met in even the poorest habitats.

"I am an occasional user of Voisey's Bay as subsistence hunting and I know this area to be exceptionally good habitat for every type of migratory bird, caribou, bear." (Jim Anderson, Panel scoping meeting in Nain, April 17, 1997)

Black bear behaviour and observations during VBNC studies reflect characteristics typical of both barren-ground and forest-dwelling populations elsewhere (JWEL 1997). Field studies conducted in the Landscape Region indicate the black bear's primary food source during spring (April-June) is usually the previous years residual berry crop (Vaccinium spp. and Empetrum spp.). However, black bears are known to hunt and scavenge seals, caribou, moose and capelin during this period. By July, the black bears' diet changes to fresh vegetation (sedges, grasses (Graminae spp.) and seaweed (Fucus spp.). By mid-August, berries emerge and once again become the main diet (JWEL 1997). In years when berry production is low, black bears may compensate by consuming more animal matter such as insects, small mammals, and carrion (Harrington 1994) or migrating arctic charr (Williamson 1997).

Generally, den site selection is influenced by a number of factors, including climate, age, sex, reproductive status, and home range (Teitje and Ruff 1980; Klenner and Kroeker 1990). Habitat features that may be important include elevation, slope, den stability, and canopy cover (Mollohan 1987). Denning habitat in the Landscape Region consists of birch thicket and similar habitats on south or southwest facing slopes, usually in an excavation of a sandy embankment with a root system to support the roof (Harrington 1994; JWEL 1997).

Den sites were identified during the field program. The telemetry surveys indicated that bears selected den sites within 1.5 - 3.0 km of the activities at the Anaktalak Bay Exploration Camp in the fall of 1996 and evidence of previously occupied den sites were found within 300 m of the Voisey's Exploration Camp (JWEL 1997).

The total area of habitat used by one animal is known as a home range. The home range of a black bear is known to vary in size based on age, sex, reproductive status and geographic location. Home ranges of adult females are usually 15-50 km2, and home ranges of adult males are usually several times larger and have been reported to be greater than 1,500 km2 (Young and Ruff 1982; Klenner 1987; Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987: 446). The home ranges of black bears studied by VBNC during 1996 were from 20 km2 to 160 km2 (JWEL 1997). The overlapping home ranges of the black bears that have been radio-collared are shown in Figure 17.2.
 

Figure 17.2 Overlapping Home Ranges of Radio-collared Black Bears
 

17.1.3.2 Life Stages

The size and life expectancy of the black bear varies with geographic location (Harrington 1994). Some black bears may live 20-25 years (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987: 3). In the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block, one bear was aged at 24 years (JWEL 1997).

The most critical life stage occurs at 16-17 months, when black bears become independent and must find adequate food while avoiding larger bears (Jonkel and Cowan 1971). During years of low food abundance, cub mortality may be as high as 50 percent, but typically is approximately 20 percent (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987).

Black bears usually reach their highest body weight prior to fall denning (Banfield 1974). Four adult male black bears in the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block weighed 95 to 140 kg during capture in early summer 1996, while six adult females weighed from 45 to 95 kg during the same period (JWEL 1997). These weights are less than those recorded in other regions of North America. Adult male black bears have been recorded weighing up to 280 kg (range of 120-280 kg), while adult females have been recorded weighing over 180 kg (range of 45-182 kg) (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987: 443).

Generally speaking, the eyesight of the black bear is poor, but they do have colour vision and can see detail at close range (Bacon and Burghardt 1976). The black bear's sense of hearing is highly developed. Under favourable conditions, black bears are known to smell carrion at distances of more than 1.5 km (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987).
 
 

17.1.3.3 Mating

Throughout their range, female black bears enter estrus (become receptive to mating) by early June and remain in heat until they have mated or their ovaries regress (Erickson et al. 1964). During this time, bears are known to become less predictable (Black Bear Management Workshop minutes 1997: 1). Male black bears travel extensively during this period, which can last until August, in an attempt to mate with as many females as possible (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). A number of females were in estrus when captured for radio-collaring in June 1996. Throughout June and July, several adult males were observed close (less than 15 m) to adult females (JWEL 1997).

Black bear reproductive rates are generally low. Females are usually between 3 - 7 years old before they produce their first young, and may only have young every second or third year following (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). Within the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block, black bear productivity is high, but survivorship of sub-adults appears to be low, depending on the previous year's food supply (JWEL 1997). Few adults were identified in the 1996 research.
 
 

17.1.3.4 Denning

"When the black bear is in his den, you have to do the respectful thing to get the animal out. Usually the elders know how to perform this rite. The elder will crawl into the bear's den and when he is inside he will start to communicate with the bear. A short conversation with the bear will help to lead it outside." (P. Rich, The Voisey's Bay News, July 1996:14)

Denning is an energy-saving tactic that black bears use during the winter when forage quality and quantity is too low for bears to survive (Linnell et al. 1996). Den entry is influenced by a number of factors, including food availability, sex, reproductive status, and age (Schooley et al. 1994). Mothers with cubs and pregnant females are usually the first to enter the den (Poelker and Hartwell 1973) between October and November (JWEL 1997). Black bear cubs are born in the den between January and February (Poelker and Hartwell 1973) and remain with their mothers for up to 17 months (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987).

Gaining sufficient body weight prior to fall denning is one of the most important factors for the successful completion of pregnancy (Elowe and Dodge 1989). Both seasonal and year-to-year variation in food resources are known to affect reproductive ability and survivorship (Rogers 1987; Schwartz and Franzmann 1991). Four of the six radio-collared female bears observed during spring emergence surveys in 1997 had a total of seven cubs.

Spring emergence surveys conducted for black bears during 1997 revealed that bears emerged from their dens over a one month period spanning April and May. Some males in the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block have been known to emerge from their den as early as March and April (JWEL 1997). An Innu participant at the black bear management workshop stated that bears usually emerge from their dens in April (Black Bear Management Workshop 1997: 5).
 
 

17.1.3.5 Population Size

Participant in LIA study: "A lot of black bear around Voisey's Bay...I saw 14 on the beach at one time and there were more around." (Williamson 1997:27)

Density estimates for black bears in North America have been reported as 0.37-0.62 bears/km2 in East Central Alberta (Young and Ruff 1982), 0.25-0.40 bears/km2 in Montana (Jonkel and Cowan 1971); and 0.11-0.15 bears/km2 in Western Newfoundland (Dennis et al. 1996). Using bear sightings, calculations of home ranges and observations of bear behaviour, an estimated density of 0.45-0.52 bears/km2 was calculated for the area comprising the Reid Brook Valley, the lower Ikadlivik Valley and Kogluktukoluk Brook, which are prime habitat for black bear (forested valleys). This area is part of the Fraser River Land Region (Lowlands Land District), covering 3,207 km2 (17.3 percent) of the Landscape Region. Applying a conservative density of 0.05 bears/km2 to the remaining terrestrial portion of the Landscape Region, results in a population estimate of approximately 2,200 black bears for the Landscape Region.

Due to the low numbers of young produced annually, bear populations may be more sensitive to hunting than many ungulate species (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). Depending on food availability and habitat conditions, the percentage of the population that may be harvested annually without any substantive effect varies from approximately 3 - 8 percent.
 

17.1.3.6 Encounters Between Humans and Black Bears

Black bears are powerful mammals with few natural enemies, yet are remarkably tolerant towards humans (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). With the exception of those that have learned to associate people with food, most bears avoid people. Some Innu believe that black bear behaviour towards humans is changing. While previously it was difficult to get close to a bear, now they are more tame. They are believed to adapt well to their surroundings (Black Bear Management Workshop minutes 1997: 13).

Black bears have been observed near VBNC camp facilities since the beginning of exploration activities in 1994. Bears were likely attracted to food odours associated with camp facilities. Bear sightings and encounters decreased as waste disposal practices improved. Increased human presence, related noise and visual disturbance, and incidental encounters may have also deterred bears.

While many bears have continued to use the areas around exploration facilities with little interaction with people, the increased presence of humans has resulted in encounters between bears and humans. Bears that appeared to pose a risk to human safety were captured and relocated with assistance of provincial Wildlife Division officials. Bears that continued to pose a threat to human safety were shot, usually under the supervision of a wildlife officer. VBNC has recorded over 50 incidents of bear capture (using culvert traps, leg snares and, in one case, aerial darting) since 1994. During the first complete year of exploration activity in 1995, of six bears captured, three were killed at the Project site by exploration personnel. During 1996, of the 41 incidents of black bears captured, four animals were killed. This level declined dramatically in 1997 to only four capture incidents and one animal killed.

Discussions with provincial wildlife officials and other mineral exploration companies indicate that at least 50 black bears (including seven within the VBNC Claim Block) may have been killed in the Landscape Region by mineral exploration companies during 1995-1996.

"Elders are the ones who have the knowledge about the ways of dealing with the animals and so on...Elders should be called directly as they have the knowledge and can give the right advice." (P. Rich, The Voisey's Bay News, July 1996:14)

A workshop on the management of black bears was held at Anaktalak Bay in March 1997. Innu elders and representatives flew over the Ovoid, Western Extension, Eastern Deeps and bear den locations in the vicinity of the Project. The group toured incineration facilities and the Voisey's Exploration Camp kitchen area. VBNC, consultants, and the regional wildlife manager (provincial Wildlife Division) made presentations on bear management at the Project site, bear collaring and tracking, and wildlife regulations.
 

17.1.4 Likely Future Conditions

Black bears exhibit a great deal of flexibility regarding habitat use, diet and their tolerance of human activities. During the expected life span of the Project (in the absence of Project activities), black bears within the Landscape Region will likely remain at similar densities and distribution. Black bears will be exposed to ongoing human activities (such as hunting and trapping by residents, and mineral exploration camps) and natural processes that affect food availability and the severity of the winter. Predicted climatic changes such as increased weather variability, a temperature decrease of less than one degree Celsius, and a sea level rise of 12 cm over the life of Project (Chapter 8) will influence food resources and habitat quality (particularly in riparian areas) but should not affect the black bear population as a whole.
 
 

17.2 Environmental Effects Assessment

Effects of human activity on black bears have been studied at other sites (Follmann and Hechtel 1990). While the particular mechanisms of interaction may vary, the main issue is the potential for increased encounters between bears and humans, and possible increases in bear mortality and negative effects on animal health due to aversion and deterrent practices. Noise, odours, and visual disturbance may disturb denning or displace bears from home ranges. Other issues include habitat alteration or loss and bioaccumulation (contamination of the food chain through changes in water quality and dust fallout from industrial operations). Potential environmental effects are summarized in Table 17.1. The synthesis of environmental effects is summarized in Appendix 17A.
 
Table 17.1 Potential Environmental Effects
    Potential Environmental Effects Project Phase Project Activities
    human and black bear encounters
  1. construction 
  2. operation 
  3. decommissioning
  4. human presence 
  5. waste management 
  6. noise and visual disturbance
  7. construction 
  8. operation 
  9. decommissioning
  10. blasting 
  11. vehicle and air traffic 
  12. mine operations 
  13. human presence 
  14. habitat alteration or loss
  15. construction 
  16. operation
  17. infrastructure construction 
  18. Bioaccumulation
  19. operation 
  20. decommissioning 
  21. post-decommissioning
  22. air emissions/dustfall 
  23. liquid effluent 
 

17.2.1 Human and Black Bear Encounters

Black bears living in the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block will experience increased encounters due to increased human presence and due to the possible attraction of bears to food and waste. Increased encounters may result in increased energetic costs when bears experience stress due to disturbance, or when they travel further to avoid disturbance.

Bear activity around industrial sites in unpopulated areas has been well documented in Alaska and the Canadian north (Bromley 1985; Follmann and Hechtel 1990). Since black bears are tolerant of humans, encounters are often uneventful and bears will often move away as humans approach (Kolenosky and Strathearn 1987). However, bears and humans may face increased danger when encounters occur by surprise, especially when bears are guarding food, protecting their young, being fed or when using dumps as a food source (Follmann et al. 1980). Bears that consume food from dumps can become habituated and lose their fear of humans.

During the development of the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline System, bears were one of the most common causes of property damage and work stoppage (Follmann and Hechtel 1990). Problems encountered with bears during the construction of this pipeline system were attributed to habituation caused by feeding and poorly operated waste management facilities (Follmann et al. 1980).

Innu participants at the black bear management workshop emphasized the importance of avoiding disturbance to bears (Black Bear Workshop Minutes 1997: 6) Appropriate food storage and waste management practices are one of the most effective means to prevent bear encounters. Innu elders have expressed concerns about bears consuming waste at exploration sites since Innu hunt and eat bear meat (Black Bear Workshop Minutes 1997: 2). To reduce the attraction of bears to food sources around VBNC facilities, domestic and office waste are collected in covered, bear-proof metal containers and incinerated on site.

VBNC employees at the exploration site have received bear awareness training as an important means of preventing encounters. All VBNC employees, contractors and site visitors will receive training during Project construction and operation upon arrival. Workers and visitors will be informed about bear habitat and behaviour in the Assessment Area, as well as appropriate avoidance and management techniques. Prevention of encounters with bears will be encouraged. Proper food and waste management practices will be strictly enforced. Harassment of bears in the Assessment Area will be prohibited.

Deterrent techniques can be used to reduce human/bear encounters. However, some techniques may be harmful to black bears on both a short and long term basis. For example, rubber bullets are known to cause wounding (Bromley 1985) and may cause increased bear aggressiveness towards humans (Harrington, F. pers. comm.). Other techniques, like bear bangers and screamers, which exploit the black bear's sense of hearing, are used to displace bears from areas of human occupation. Unfortunately, black bears are known to rapidly habituate to these noise makers (Bromley 1985). Bears can also be fed emetics (substances to induce nausea and sickness) such as lithium chloride but their effectiveness has not been documented (Follmann and Hechtel 1990; Follmann et al. 1980).

Electric fencing is the preferred deterrent technique. Electric fencing can prevent encounters and can prevent bears from accessing areas of food or solid waste (Bromley 1985; Follmann et al. 1980; Follmann and Hechtel 1990). Innu elders have expressed concerns regarding the safety of bears, humans and other small animals that could come into contact with an electric fence (Black Bear Workshop Minutes 1997: 2). The electric current proposed for use is considered to cause no permanent damage to bears (Bromley 1985; Follmann et al. 1980; Follmann and Hechtel 1990; J. Marley, pers. comm.), humans or other animals. The effectiveness of electric shocks makes tunnelling, climbing and fence destruction unlikely. LIA, Innu Nation, and wildlife officials will be consulted regarding the implementation and use of electric fencing.

Encounters between humans and black bears will be avoided whenever possible. Bears that appear to pose a risk to human safety may be captured and relocated with assistance of provincial Wildlife Division officials. Bears that continue to pose a threat to human safety may be shot, under the supervision of a wildlife officer, where possible.
 
 

17.2.2 Noise and Visual Disturbance

Black bears living in the Landscape Region will experience some noise disturbance from activities during all phases of Project development. Previous research (Sopuck et al. 1979; DND 1990; RRCS 1994) and observations of bear behaviour during VBNC studies and exploration activity (drilling, helicopter overflights and human presence) (JWEL 1997) suggests that black bears will avoid certain parts of the VBNC Claim Block (e.g., quarries and open pit).

Research on the response of bears to noise indicates that bears are likely to show a startle response when alarmed. With few natural enemies, the response of black bears to noise is likely to vary. They may be confused if approached by a potentially threatening object. Since bears are omnivores, they are considered to be less sensitive to high frequency sounds than carnivores, which depend on hearing to detect prey (RRCS 1994).

Noise modelling was undertaken by VBNC to predict noise levels resulting from Project activity within the VBNC Claim Block (Morrison Hershfield 1997). The average sound over a 24-hour period is known as the equivalent sound level (LEQ) and was projected for construction and operation phases.

The loudest noise from Project activities will be from blasting. Blasting will result in a 24-hour LEQ peak greater than 100 dB that will extend over bear habitat, including three known den sites. Experience at Cold Lake in Alberta, indicates that black bears are capable of habituating to either constant or periodic noise (Sopuck et al. 1979). It is anticipated that the association of a warning noise before each blast will reduce any startle effect for wildlife.

Projected 24-hour LEQ values will not exceed 50 dBA in the vicinity of other activity (excluding blasting) during construction or operation. For example, in the vicinity of the airstrip and approach corridors, 24-hour LEQ values is estimated at 35-45 dBA. During black bear field studies in the vicinity of the VBNC Claim Block, bears were observed to not react to approximately 50 percent of helicopter over-flights during the summer of 1996. For those that did react, the degree of reaction varied but was considered strongest (e.g., flight response) amongst females with cubs (JWEL 1997). Displacement or short-term avoidance of habitat will occur as a result of helicopter and aircraft traffic, but is not expected to result in any measurable effect on physiology or reproductive success.

Denning could be affected by noise associated with Project activities. During denning, bears are totally dependent on fat reserves and use the reduced energetic costs of torpor and thermal insulation of the den to survive. Disturbance (e.g., noise) during this phase of the life cycle could have much greater costs in terms of survival and reproduction than at other times of the year (Tietje and Ruff 1980; Linnell et al. 1996).

Disturbed bears are more likely to vacate den sites than undisturbed bears (Tietje and Ruff 1980; Goodrich and Berger 1994). Female bears have been observed to abandon dens more readily than males. Bears disturbed during the fall, through handling by researchers, were reported to have lost more weight than undisturbed bears, although no overwinter mortality or reduced reproduction was noted. Researchers handling bears during mid-winter have reported den abandonment and a subsequent energy disadvantage or cub abandonment (Goodrich and Berger 1994). Once bears have emerged from their dens, they are unlikely to abandon their cubs due to disturbance (DND 1994).

In the Landscape Region, black bears are known to den during November to April, a period which will overlap blasting activity. Mortality, particularly of young cubs, might occur if the den is disturbed during severe winter conditions or if the den collapses due to ground vibrations from blasting, at noise levels of 100-120 dB or higher (Follmann,E. and Banci, V. pers. comm.).

Blasting will occur during construction, start-up operations at the open pit, full operations at the open pit, and (later) during underground development and mining. Open pit blasting will occur from June to November; during underground development from March to November; and during underground mining, all year.

The known den locations, in relation to the 100 dB blasting contour and home ranges, are shown in Figure 17.3.

It is expected that bears will tend to avoid areas of loud noise (blasting, airstrip and approach corridors) if it is perceived as harmful. Therefore, as long as blasting is initiated before the denning period (as is the case for all Project phases), bears will likely choose to create new dens or inhabit existing den sites away from blasting noise. Known den sites will be mapped and avoided by Project personnel whenever possible.
 
 

17.2.3 Habitat Alteration or Loss

Physical disturbance and subsequent habitat alteration due to Project activities is expected to be small for black bear. Some adjustment of individual home range boundaries will likely occur but not to the point of affecting population density. While the actual effects of habitat alteration are expected to be small, each individual may respond differently.
 
Figure 17.3 Den Locations and Blasting Noise

In the Landscape Region, black bears use a variety of habitats, with each habitat contributing something essential such as food, shelter or water for survival (JWEL 1997). For example, barren habitats provide more forage (berries and grasses) but less shelter (daybeds) than forested areas, while dwarf shrub forest cover at the interface of the Fraser River and Central Ranges Land Regions provide den sites (JWEL 1997). Altering any of these habitats could have consequences at a local scale. However, it is anticipated that less than 3 percent of the dwarf shrub forest (preferred denning habitat) in the Landscape Region will be disturbed by the Project (Chapter 14). In addition, approximately 0.5 percent of barrens habitat providing forage will be disturbed by the Project. Black bears are expected to avoid disturbed areas that do not provide forage or shelter. The use of natural vegetation for reclamation may reduce the total habitat altered or lost, and could result in temporary avoidance of some areas.

In other areas of Canada, habitat alteration associated with development and natural events in the boreal forest have had minimal effects on black bear distribution, habitat use and behaviour (Schwartz and Franzmann 1991; Sopuck et al. 1979). These authors suggest that, although black bears prefer deciduous forest and avoid extensive open areas, they may benefit from forest clearings or forest fires if the altered habitats are located adjacent to areas of forest cover and/or there is a subsequent increase in prey.
 
 

17.2.4 Bioaccumulation

Environmental effects to black bear associated with the uptake and bioaccumulation of metals has been evaluated through the use of a risk assessment model (Beak International Incorporated 1997). The model considered six metals (nickel, copper, cobalt, zinc, lead and cadmium) based on contaminant source characterizations (Senes 1997 a, b, c) and biological sensitivity. Black bear were considered to potentially uptake these elements through a number of pathways, including drinking water, eating animals, fish and plants, and inhalation of air containing particulate matter. Inhalation (breathing) of metals was only included as a pathway for black bear located within the Camp Pond, Reid Brook Valley, and Anaktalak Bay because the air plume from the pit and mill and the concentrate handling facility (Anaktalak Bay) does not extend into other watersheds. Each of these sources reflected the influence of the site during operations and post-decommissioning periods.

For modelling purposes, five areas of black bear habitat were modelled, representing watersheds on the site: Option 5 watershed, North Tailings Basin watershed, Edward's Cove (Anaktalak Bay), Reid Brook Valley, and Camp Pond watershed. It was assumed that black bear resides in these areas year-round and obtain all of their food and water from within these areas. Information on diet and weight of black bear was site-specific, based on the information obtained through baseline studies. Black bear was modelled with a mixed diet of vegetation and animals. The vegetation accounted for 70 percent of the annual diet, consisting primarily of bakeapples with some deciduous browse. Animal consumption provided the other 30 percent of the diet and consisted predominately of small mammals, with some larger prey such as caribou. The uptake and bioaccumulation of metals from dietary sources is based on ingestion transfer factors which determine the efficiency to which the metals are transferred from a food source to the bear. These ingestion transfer factors are based on established literature values that are available primarily for livestock species. For modelling of the black bear, ingestion transfer factors for other omnivores (i.e., pigs) were used (IAEA 1994).

Based on exposure, diet, and ingestion transfer, the bioaccumulation of metals in black bears was modelled over a period of 140 years. The model provided estimates of dose (mg/kg/day) for each of the metals modelled. The predicted dose concentrations were compared to lowest observable effect levels (LOEL) which are toxicological benchmark concentrations. Species-specific LOEL (benchmark doses) were calculated based on weight following established equations for wildlife (Sample et al. 1996). The LOEL represent the concentration at which some effect on the animal (e.g., weight loss) was observed. These values do not represent acute toxicological thresholds, which would be substantially higher. The predicted dose was compared to the benchmark dose (LOEL) to produce hazard quotients (HQ) for each of the metals modelled. The HQ represents the ratio of the predicted dose to the benchmark dose. An HQ equal to, or greater than, one indicates a predicted dose concentration equal to or greater than the LOEL. Therefore, an HQ of less than one is interpreted as representing a dose which is not expected to have an observable effect on black bear.

The results of the modelling provided HQ values which were well below one for all metals in each of the five locates that were modelled. HQ values decrease over time, with lowest values predicted during post-decommissioning The highest HQ values were predicted for nickel, copper and cobalt in Camp Pond and Edward's Cove watersheds. However, even in these locations, HQ values are one to three orders of magnitude (10 to 1,000 times) lower than the benchmark value. It should be noted that the results for Edward's Cove is an overestimate because bears do not, in fact, reside there full time. The metals modelled in the other watersheds are much lower still (three to seven orders of magnitude).

Therefore, the black bear is not expected to bioaccumulate metals to a dose which would cause an adverse environmental effect.
 
 

17.2.5 Accidental Events

The possibility of accidental fires may increase due to human presence. The response of black bears to habitat alteration due to fire will vary according to the type of fire, its frequency, forest composition and age, and weather (DND 1990). Infrequent fires can provide long-term ecological benefits by enhancing nutrient recycling. If fires occur too frequently, forests are unable to reproduce, creating barren areas that are slow to re-vegetate. Black bear, small mammals, and other wildlife species can be affected positively or negatively according to their respective habitat requirements. The possibility of an accidental fire can never be completely eliminated. Black bears generally benefit from improved foraging opportunities in burned areas, although there could be a short-term loss in cover (Jonkel and Cowan 1971; Rowe and Scotter 1973). In the Assessment Area, black bears were not observed in burnt areas during 1996, but they were observed in many open habitat types (JWEL 1997).

Accidental events such as pipeline failure, dam failure or a contaminant spill could result in habitat loss. However, bears use a variety of habitats in the Landscape Region and could likely fulfill their habitat needs in other areas. Exposure to contaminants from a pipeline failure or a spill could result in some bioaccumulation. Any accumulation of containments would be minimal, since bears would likely avoid the area during clean-up activities.
 
 

17.2.6 Cumulative Environmental Effects

Mineral exploration by VBNC and other companies within the Landscape Region may cause adverse environmental effects on black bears. Bears have been attracted to food odours and wastes at exploration camps, and encounters with humans have increased due to their increased presence. However, with the decline of expenditures on mineral exploration in northern Labrador since 1996, encounters may be expected to decline to pre-1994 levels.
 
 

17.2.7 Environmental Design and Mitigation

Environmental design will reduce the Project's effects on black bears and their habitat. Many design features have already proven effective at other mines, such as Hope Brook in Newfoundland, and Red Dog in Alaska. One mechanism which might be repeated is a site visit with Aboriginal people who have knowledge of bear behaviour. Additional features and their implementation will be discussed with Innu Nation, LIA, government officials, and others as appropriate. A summary of the key points relevant for black bears follows:
 
  • training will be provided to all Project personnel regarding awareness of black bears;

  •  
  • identification, inventory and protection of sensitive bear habitat (i.e., active black bear dens);

  •  
  • appropriate food storage and waste management practices to reduce attraction and accessibility;

  •  
  • no feeding, harassment or hunting of bear by site personnel is permitted;

  •  
  • the establishment of an electric fence as a deterrent around appropriate areas of the Project that attract bears;

  •  
  • all-terrain vehicles will be restricted to designated routes;

  •  
  • vehicles will yield to bears; and

  •  
  • personnel working away from camps will be equipped with warning devices as appropriate.

  •  
     

    17.3 Residual Environmental Effects

    The interactions related to the potential environmental effects on black bears include the increases in human presence in the area of the Project, alterations to black bear habitat, and noise, principally associated with blasting and construction activities. Black bears occur in the Assessment Area throughout the year and awareness training for all employees, and fencing around key areas of the Project will reduce potential environmental effects. A small area of potential black bear denning habitat will be affected and black bears are expected to avoid areas of blasting noise when selecting den sites.

    The definitions for the rating of residual environmental effects significance are as follows:

    A major (significant) residual environmental effect is one affecting the Landscape Region black bear population (Black Bear Assessment Area) in such a way as to cause a change in abundance and/or change in distribution beyond which natural recruitment (reproduction and immigration from unaffected areas) would not return that population, or any populations or species dependent on it, to its former level within several generations.

    A moderate (significant) residual environmental effect is one affecting a portion of the Landscape Region black bear population (Black Bear Assessment Area) that results in a change in abundance and/or distribution over one or more generations of that portion of the population, or any populations or species dependent on it, but does not change the integrity of any population as a whole; it may be localised.

    A minor (not significant) residual environmental effect is one affecting the Landscape Region black bear population (Black Bear Assessment Area) or a specific group of black bears in the population at a localised area and/or over a short period (one generation or less) but not affecting other trophic levels or the integrity of the population itself.

    A negligible (not significant) residual environmental effect is one affecting the Landscape Region black bear population (Black Bear Assessment Area) or a specific group of black bears in the population at a localised area and/or over a short period (one generation or less) in such a way as to be similar to small random changes in the population due to natural irregularities, but having no measurable impact on the population as a whole.

    The residual environmental effects, including cumulative effects, remaining after mitigation, and including consideration of cumulative environmental effects are presented in Table 17.2.
     

    Table 17.2 Summary of Residual Environmental Effects
      Project Phase  Residual Environmental
      Effect 
      Significance  Likelihooda
       
      Sustainable (Capacity) Use of Renewable Resources
      construction  human/bear encounters, 
      habitat alteration or loss 
      minor
      (not significant) 
      n/a  n/a 
      operation  habitat alteration or loss,
      noise and visual disturbance 
      minor
      (not significant) 
      n/a  n/a 
      decommissioning  noise and visual disturbance, human/bear encounters  negligible 
      (not significant) 
      n/a  n/a 
      post- decommissioning  human/bear encounters  negligible
      (not significant) 
      n/a  n/a 
      accidental events  habitat loss, bioaccumulation  minor
      (not significant) 
      n/a  n/a 
      a likelihood and sustainable use of renewable resources are only defined for environmental effects that are significant (moderate or major) (CEAA 1994: 84, 187).
      * n/a = not applicable 
     
     

    17.3.1 Construction

    During construction black bear may be disturbed by an expected increase in human and bear encounters resulting from the increase in Project personnel. A variety of habitat used by a small number of bears for foraging and denning will also be affected. Black bear are tolerant of human disturbances and only a small portion of habitat that may provide potential den sites will be affected.

    The greatest challenge regarding black bears will involve reducing contact with humans, particularly around the accommodations facilities during April to November. With the installation of electric fencing, bear awareness training, and strict controls for food storage and waste management, and use of natural vegetation for reclamation, human and bear encounters should decline.

    The estimated loss of preferred denning habitat (dwarf shrub forest) and foraging habitat (barrens) is small and not expected to adversely affect bear distribution and abundance. Since bears have the ability to tolerate disturbance and use a variety of habitat types, the effect of habitat loss will be measurable but will not affect the integrity of the population, as environmental effects will be limited to a few individuals. A minor (not significant) residual environmental effect is predicted during construction (Table 17.2).
     
     

    17.3.2 Operation

    During operations, human and black bear encounters will continue with the increased human presence in the Assessment Area.

    With the mitigation and Project design measures identified and implemented during operations, local avoidance of high use areas may be expected during April to November. During open pit operations, blasting will occur from June until November during the three-year start up period of operation and from March to November during full open pit production. Disturbances to bears resulting from blasting activities at the mine prior to the denning period should result in bears denning elsewhere. Human/black bear encounters should be infrequent by the time the mine is operational. However, some disturbance to adjacent black bear dens may be unavoidable, causing bears to leave their dens prematurely. Black bear are tolerant of human activity and it is anticipated that the routine occurrence of blasting during open pit mining will result in some bears relocating elsewhere to select a den site. Habitat providing potential den sites in the Assessment Area is abundant and not limited to areas affected by open pit blasting.

    There are no health issues or implications on reproductive success for black bears. A minor (not significant) residual environmental effect is predicted during operation (Table 17.2).
     
     

    17.3.3 Decommissioning

    Activities (noise and visual disturbances) leading to temporary avoidance by black bears will continue during decommissioning, but at a greatly reduced level. With the removal of infrastructure such as fencing, encounters between humans and black bears may increase during decommissioning. Potential for contaminant exposure or bioaccumulation will be reduced through adherence to reclamation standards. Modelling indicates no measurable environmental effect on bioaccumulation in black bear. A negligible (not significant) residual environmental effect is predicted during decommissioning.
     
     
     

    17.3.4 Post-Decommissioning

    Activities with the potential to cause temporary avoidance by black bears will cease after decommissioning is complete. Encounters between Project personnel and black bears are expected to be minimal. No interactions are expected between the Project and black bears following decommissioning. Therefore, residual environmental effects are predicted as negligible (not significant) during post-decommissioning.
     
     

    17.3.5 Accidental Events

    Accidental events involving the introduction of contaminants into aquatic environments (spill of hydrocarbons or concentrate, pipeline rupture or dam failure) will typically be localized or at least overlap only a portion of an individual bear's home range. Direct contact may be harmful but is not expected to affect health or reproductive success (e.g., temporary habitat avoidance and irritation). A forest fire would have the greatest influence on the distribution of black bears but only in terms of altering movements between new habitats. Riparian habitat for cover should remain following even a large-scale fire while the successional vegetation in recently burned areas will be particularly attractive for foraging black bears. A minor (not significant) residual environmental effect is predicted during accidental events (Table 17.2).
     
     

    17.3.6 Follow-up Program

    Black bear encounters and response actions taken in conformance to the Environmental Protection Plan will be recorded. There are no compliance monitoring requirements for black bear. The process for developing follow-up plans, including monitoring, are summarized in Chapter 4.
     
     

    17.4 References

    Literature Cited

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    Armitage, P. 1990. Land use and occupancy among the Innu of Utshimassit and Sheshatshit. Prep. for the Innu Nation, Sheshatshit and Utshimassit, Nitassiman.

    Bacon, E.S. and G.M. Burghardt. 1976. Learning and color discrimination in the American black bear. Int. Conf. Bear. Res. and Manage. 3:27-36.

    Banfield, A.W.F. 1974. The Mammals of Canada. University of Toronto Press, Toronto, 438 p.

    Beak International Incorporated. 1997. Assessment of Potential Contamination Effects in the Environment, Voisey's Bay Mine/Mill Project. Updated December 1997. Prepared for Voisey's Bay Nickel Company. Voisey's Bay Nickel Company, St. John's, NF.

    Black Bear Management Workshop. 1997. Minutes from discussion with Innu, Inuit, VBNC and Provincial officials. Anaktalak Bay, March 27, 1997.

    Bromley, M. 1985. Safety in bear country: A reference manual. N.W.T. Department of Renewable Resources.
    CEAA (Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency). 1994. Responsible Authority's Guide.

    DND (Department of National Defence). 1994. EIS: Military flight training. An environmental impact statement on military flying activities in Labrador and Quebec.

    DND (Department of National Defence). 1990. Environmental impact assessment of low level air defence training areas in New Brunswick. Prepared for the Department of National Defence by WMS Associates Ltd, LeDrew, Fudge and Associates Ltd. and Jacques, Whitford and Associates Ltd. in association with D.A Westworth and Associates Ltd., Barron Kennedy Lyzun & Associates Ltd., Research and Productivity Council and Fredericton Appraisal Associates.

    Dennis, W., S. Mahoney, and D. Snow. 1996. Ecology and Habitat Use of Black Bears in the Serpentine Lake Area of Western Newfoundland. Draft Interim Report: June 1993-1996. Western Newfoundland Model Forest.

    Elowe, K.D. and W.E. Dodge. 1989. Factors affecting black bear reproductive success and cub survival. J. Wildl. Manage. 53(4):962-968.

    Erickson, A.W., J.E. Nellor, and G. Petrides. 1964. The black bear in Michigan. Res. Bull. 4, Michigan State Univ. Agr. Exp. Sta., E. Lansing Michigan. 102 p.

    Follmann, E.H., R.A. Dieterich, and J.L. Hechtel. 1980. Recommended carnivore control program for the Northwest Alaskan Pipeline Project: including a review of human-carnivore encounter problems and animal deterrent methodology. Final Report prepared for Northwest Alaskan Pipeline Company, Fairbanks, Alaska.

    Follmann, E.H. and J.L. Hechtel. 1990. Bears and pipeline construction in Alaska. Arctic. 43(2):103-109.

    Goodrich, J.M. and J. Berger. 1994. Winter Recreation and Hibernating Black Bears Ursus Americanus. Biological Conservation 67:105-110.

    Harrington, F.H. 1994. Fauna of the Torngat Mountains area. Final Report prepared for Parks Canada, Halifax, NS.

    IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). 1994. Handbook of Parameter Values for the Prediction of the Radionuclide Transfer in Temperate Environments. IAEA Technical Report Series No. 364.

    JWEL (Jacques Whitford Environment Limited). 1997. Voisey's Bay 1996 Environmental Baseline Technical Data Report: Black Bear. Voisey's Bay Nickel Company Limited, St. John's, NF.

    Jonkel, C.J. and I. Cowan. 1971. The black bear in the spruce-fir forest. Wildl. Monogr. 27. 57 p.

    Klenner, W. 1987. Seasonal movements and home range utilization patterns of the black bear, Ursus americanus, in Western Manitoba. Can. Field. Nat. 101:558-567.

    Klenner, W. and D.W. Kroeker. 1990. Denning behaviour of black bears, Ursus americanus, in Western Manitoba. Can. Field. Nat. 104:540-544.

    Kolenosky, G.B. and S.M. Strathearn. 1987. Black bear. In M. Novak, J.A. Baker, M.E. Obbard and B. Malloch (eds.) Wild furbearer management and conservation in North America. Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario, 1150 p.

    Lindzey, F.G. 1987. Black bears. In: Handbook of Census Methods for Terrestrial Vertebrates. D.E. Davis (ed.) Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press.
    Linnell, J.D.C., J. Swenson, B. Barnes, and R. Andersen. 1996. How Vulnerable are Denning Bears to Disturbance? A review. A study in connection with plans for the establishment of a military training area in Østlandet, Norway. Part 2-NINA Oppdraqsmelding 413:1-19.

    Mollohan, C.M. 1987. Characteristics of adult female black bear daybeds in northern Arizona. Int. Conf. Bear Res. and Manage. 7: 145-149.

    Morrison Hershfield. 1997. Noise Contours Voisey's Bay Mine/Mill Project, Construction and Operation. Report No. 2964172.01. Prepared for Voisey's Bay Nickel Company Limited, St. John's, Nfld.

    Poelker, R.J. and H.D. Hartwell. 1973. Black bear in Washington: Its biology, natural history and relationship to forest regeneration. Washington State Game Department, Olympia, WA.

    RRCS (Renewable Resources Consulting Services Ltd.) 1994. A review of the literature pertaining to the effects of noise and other distrubance on wildlife. Technical Report 7. 157 pp. In: Department of National Defence (DND). 1994. EIS: Military flight training. An environmental impact statement on military flying activities in Labrador and Quebec.

    Rogers, L.L. 1987. Effects of food supply and kinship on social behaviour, movements, and population growth of black bears in northeastern Minnesota. Wildl. Monogr. 97. 72 p.

    Rowe, J.S. and G.W. Scotter. 1973. Fire in the boreal forest. Quartern. Res. 3(3): 444-464.

    Sample, B.E., D.M. Presko, and G.W. Suter II. 1996. Toxicological Benchmarks for Wildlife. 1996 Region. ES/ERTIM-86/R3. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, USA.
    Schooley, R.L., C.R. Mclaughlin, G.J. Matula, and W.B. Krohn. 1994. Denning chronology of female black bears: effects of food, weather, and reproduction. J. Mammal. 75(2):466-477.

    Schwartz, C.C. and A.W. Franzmann. 1991. Interrelationship of black bears to moose and forest succession in the northern coniferous forest. Wildl. Monogr. 113. 58p.

    Senes. 1997a. Assessment of Edward's Cove Treated Effluent Discharge Quality. Memo Report, October 1997. Prepared for Voisey's Bay Nickel Company, St. John's, NF.

    Senes. 1997b. Preliminary Assessment of the Performance of the Voisey's Bay Pond 4 Tailings Management Facility - years 9-24. Memo Report, October 1997. Prepared for Voisey's Bay Nickel Company, St. John's, NF.

    Senes. 1997c. Assessment of the Performance of Headwater Pond. Memo Report, October 1997. Prepared for Voisey's Bay Nickel Company, St. John's, NF.

    Sopuck, L.G., C.E. Tull, J.E. Green, and R.E. Salter. 1979. Impacts of development on wildlife: A review from the perspective of the Cold Lake Project. Prepared for Esso Resources Canada Limited, Calgary, Alberta, 399 p.

    Tietje, W.D. and R.L. Ruff. 1980. Denning behaviour of black bears in the boreal forest of Alberta. J. Wildl. Manage. 44:858-870.

    Veitch, A. M. and F. H. Harrington. 1994. Brown bears, black bears, and humans in Northern Labrador: A historical perspective and outlook to the future. Conference on Co-existence of Large Predators and Man. Biesczasy, Poland.
     

    Williamson, T. 1997. From Sina to Sikujaluk: Our Footprint. Mapping Inuit Environmental Knowledge in the Nain District of Northern Labrador. Prepared for the Labrador Inuit Association, Nain, Labrador.

    Young, B.F and R.L. Ruff. 1982. Population dynamics and movements of black bears in East Central Alberta.
     

    Personal Communications

    Banci, V. Environmental Biologist, Vancouver, British Columbia.

    Follmann, E. Professor of Biology, Institute of Arctic Biology, Fairbanks, Alaska.

    Harrington, F. Professor of Psychology Mount Saint Vincent University, Associate Professor of Biology Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

    Marley, J. Owner Margo Supplies, authority on bear aversion techniques.
     
     

    Appendix 17A

    Environmental Effects Assessment Synthesis:
    Black Bear

     
     
     
    Environmental Effects Assessment Synthesis: Black Bear
    Page 1
    Page 2
     

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