The work program for the Phase I ESA was conducted in compliance with the CSA standard Z768-01 for Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and conformed to the Ontario Regulation 153/04.  Given the unique history of the site and the complex activities over its life time, obtaining information describing all the past activities was challenging. As such, a number of specialists (e.g., from Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, the Toronto Aerospace Museum, Canada Aviation Museum)  were contacted to get information for the type of petroleum hydrocarbons, oil and lubricants, chemicals, which were used for aircraft maintenance, storage and training processes (waste management, storage practice, spills, etc.) and any potential environmental concerns for the site (or similar sites: former Royal Canadian Air Force Stations used during World War II and thereafter).

The following major components of a Phase I ESA were provided:

1.  Using information sources like federal lists, provincial lists, and local sources such as fire department, inspection records, site plans, and City directories, we completed a site history and records review, including:

• a review of published geological mapping
• a review of available hydrogeological reports
• a review of previous land use through the aerial photographs
• a title document search
• records review

2.  Site reconnaissance and a Phase I audit checklist was completed during a site visit.   A pertinent interview was conducted with the property manager.