Species at Risk Screening
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Serving Ottawa and Beyond
Based in Almonte, Ontario, we proudly serve Ottawa and the surrounding communities, including Kanata, Carp, Stittsville, Manotick, Carleton Place, Dunrobin, Kinburn, and Richmond.​
What Our Clients Are Saying
Experience the Shade Group difference—where quality workmanship meets exceptional service.​
After doing some research online, I was brought to Alan and Shade Group with a project to extent our backyard and clean up a ton of brush, deadfall and unhealthy trees. Alan was an absolute pleasure to deal with from start to finish! Project was priced right, started and finished on time and without delays.
I would highly recommend Alan and the team at Shade Group! You will not be disappointed!
Jeff CluneyLocal Guide Level 6
Species at Risk Screening
Most clients come to us for environmental consulting services as a result of a conversation with an approval agency; typically their municipality or the local Conservation Authority.
Other times, our clients approach us because they’re considering a project, but they know that there is a possibility for constraints on their property that could inhibit the project.
Our environmental services department has the expertise and experience to offer services to address environmental constraints that may exist on your property.
Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA)
The Endangered Species Act is a piece of provincial legislation that provides protection for more than 200 species and plants that are endangered, threatened or considered special concern in Ontario.
Shade Group is a family owned and operated professional services and construction company based out of the Ottawa Valley in Ontario. Our environmental services department is led by Heather, who comes from over twenty years of experience in the
environmental industry. Growing up, Heather had a passion for everything natural. From plants to animals, Heather can likely identify what you’re hearing or seeing and provide some trivia to go along with it!
Species at Risk Screening
The main purpose of a Species at Risk Screening is to look for species or habitat of species protected under the Endangered Species Act, that may present potential constraints to the development of the subject property. Species at Risk Screenings may be requested by an approval agency as part of an application package for:
- Proposed severance;
- Subdivision applications;
- Site plan applications, or
- Various other land development or construction activities that may impact the existing natural habitat and species.
Due Diligence Tool
Assessment for potential species at risk can also be used as a high level due diligence review for a property. By completing either a desktop review – to identify potential habitat and possible constraints – or a field level review – our environmental team can highlight potential impacts that the Endangered Species Act may have on the project you’re considering.
Screening Reviews
- Desktop review;
- Field study;
- Identify constraints and opportunities;
- Identify habitat;
- Â Identify species.
The Process
Why Choose Shade Group for your Environmental Services Needs?
When you choose Shade Group for your environmental services needs, you are partnering with a small, locally-owned, family-run business. Heather has a passion for the environment and over twenty years of experience in the wildlife and environmental services industry – and can identify plants, animals and reptiles alike.
The Shade Group team is large enough to have access to resources and expertise to get the job done, but small enough that you’ll still get the one-on-one attention you deserve. You will not get bounced from one associate to another – when working on an environmental services project, Heather will be your guide from start-to-finish.
We believe in providing great service and value along with complete customer satisfaction with every project we complete! We will conduct ourselves like true professionals on your property at all times.
If you’d like an estimate for a Species at Risk Screening for your project, please fill out our online contact form and we’ll get right back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Species at Risk Screening, and do I really need one?
A Species at Risk Screening identifies plants, animals or habitats on your site that are regulated by Ontario or federal law. When you are beginning a build, excavation, or landscaping project, it is not a mere formality. It is the initial step towards ensuring that your project remains legal, compliant, and on track.
Who needs a screening—just big developers, or homeowners too?
Both. Whether you are a builder digging the ground or a homeowner installing a new driveway, any activity that disrupts the land may require screening. Species regulations do not apply only to large projects but also to small projects that may still have impacts. We assist homeowners, contractors, and developers in remaining on the right side of the law.
How long does a screening take?
Depending on the size of the site and the species involved, typically, only a few hours on-site, with a couple days to complete documentation. We are fast because we understand that delays can waste time and money. We do not leave you hanging once we are booked. You’ll get your report fast—clear, concise, and to the point.
What happens if you find something?
Don’t panic. If we encounter a threatened species or habitat, we guide you through the process. That could be obtaining permits, reworking a section of your plan, or changing your schedule. We have done this before, and we will guide you through it without any drama or stress.
Is this just paperwork, or do you actually inspect the land?
We’re out there, on the ground. We don’t just fill out forms. We walk the terrain, observe plants and animal species, assess habitats, and take detailed notes. You are not just getting someone with a clipboard; you are getting a specialist familiar with the species, the habitats, and the legislation.
Who does the screening at Shade Group?
Heather, with more than 20 years of experience in environmental and wildlife services, does all the screening herself. You will not be shuffled around departments or waiting to be called back. You will deal with the same expert from the first call to the final report.
What Our Clients Are Saying
What Our Clients Are Saying
Ready to Start Your Project?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how Shade Group can bring your vision to life.