Designated Office Evaluation
Yukon is divided into six assessment districts with a Designated Office (DO) in each district. DOs are located in: Dawson City, Haines Junction, Mayo, Teslin, Watson Lake and Whitehorse. Most projects are assessed at the Designated Office level.
The projects assessed at the Designated Office level range from power poles, quartz exploration and placer projects to Hydro dams and mine closure and remediation.
This level is used for projects with more limited or well-understood potential effects.
Read moreExecutive Committee Screening
The Executive Committee of the Board, made up of Chair and two Board members, assesses larger projects that come to it directly, or are referred by a Designated Office. A screening allows for two public comments and review stages. One stage allows for public comment on the project proposal and another for the public to review the Draft Screening Report.
This level is typically used for projects that:
- Have broader or more complex potential effects
- May raise significant public concern
- Require additional technical or policy consideration
The Executive Committee reviews information, considers public and Indigenous input, and issues recommendations.
Read morePanel Review
Panels of the Board are established to assess projects that may cause major public concern and are referred to it by the Executive Committee. Panel Review is the most in-depth level of assessment.
A Panel Review may be initiated:
- By referral from the Executive Committee, or
- At the request of a federal, territorial, or First Nation decision body
Panel Reviews are typically used for projects that:
- May cause significant adverse effects
- Are likely to generate significant public concern
- Involve use of complex or controversial technology
Panel Reviews may include public hearings, technical sessions, and additional opportunities for participation before recommendations are issued.
Read moreWhat Happens at Each Stage
While the details vary by project and assessment level, each assessment generally includes:
Project Proposal and Information Gathering
The proponent submits a proposal describing the project and its potential effects. Additional information may be requested to support the assessment.
Public and Indigenous Participation
Opportunities are provided for the public, First Nations, governments, and organisations to submit comments or information relevant to potential effects.
Assessment of Effects
YESAB assesses potential environmental and socio-economic effects, considering mitigation measures and information from multiple sources.