GAHCHO KUÉ PROJECT 2012 DRAFT NO NET LOSS PLAN

The Project will result in the permanent loss of approximately 158.9 ha of lake area (Figure 4). Most of the losses will occur in Kennady Lake (156.9 ha), representing about 19 % of the total pre-development Kennady Lake area of 813.6 ha. The remainder of the permanently lost areas in adjacent waterbodies includes the complete loss of Lakes Ka1, and Kb4 associated with mine rock piles; however, both of these lakes are considered to be non fish-bearing (De Beers 2010, Annex J) and would not contribute to the final habitat offset requirements. It has been assumed that in final design that habitat losses of small portions of Lakes N7 and E1 associated with roads and dykes will be avoided (Figure 4). 4.2.2.2 Habitat Alteration The Project will affect an additional 84.1 ha of lake area that will be dewatered and physically altered, but will be re-submerged at closure. These habitat alterations occur within Kennady Lake through the development of mine pits, roads, dykes, and water containment ponds on the lake bed (Figure 4), representing about 10 % of the total pre-development Kennady Lake area of 813.6 ha. At closure, these areas will become re-submerged to provide fish habitat, although the physical attributes of the habitat at these locations will have been altered. 4.2.2.3 Habitat Disruption The Project will result in disruption to approximately 429.4 ha of lake area being dewatered and unavailable a