Unit 2

Setting a Standard for Environmental Assessment in Canada: The Berger Inquiry on the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline

In this unit, we review a well-done environmental assessment that established quality standards for EA in Canada. The Berger Inquiry on the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline is a seminal event in both the history of EA and the national consciousness of Native rights and aspirations. This case study provides a practical illustration of the conduct of an environmental assessment and is used to reinforce students’ understanding of the principles of EA.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to

1. describe the key features of the Berger Inquiry.
2. explain how the Berger Inquiry process represented good assessment.
3. evaluate the importance of public input to environmental assessment.