Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

News Release

Proposed Development of the Péribonka Hydroelectric Facility Determined to be Environmentally Satisfactory

OTTAWA - April 7, 2004 - The Honourable David Anderson, Minister of the Environment, today announced that the Hydro-Québec proposal to construct a dam and a hydroelectric generating station on the Péribonka River will not require referral to a mediator or review panel under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. Minister Anderson has referred the project back to the federal authorities, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Transport Canada, for appropriate action.

After considering the comprehensive study report, the public comments and the responsible authority's response to the comments, the Minister has concluded that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, provided that the mitigation measures identified in the comprehensive study report are implemented.

With regards to the effects anticipated on wetlands, the Minister emphasized the importance that the proponent develop a compensation program, as described in the comprehensive study report. This program must be approved by the federal authorities prior to the beginning of works, and must adequately compensate the effects of the project on wetlands.

"The implementation of a compensation program will ensure that the project does not result in significant adverse effects on wetlands," said Minister Anderson.

Hydro-Québec is proposing the construction of a dam and a hydroelectric generating station with an estimated capacity of 385 MW on the Péribonka River, immediately upstream from the mouth of the Manouane River. In addition to the 80-metre high dam, spillway and underground generating station, the project involves the creation of a reservoir measuring 35 kilometres (km) in length with a surface area of 31.6 km², and the construction of a 25.6 km permanent road.

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency administers the federal environmental assessment process, which identifies the environmental effects of proposed projects and measures to address those effects, in support of sustainable development.

For more information:

Claire Chippindale
Communications Advisor
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
Tel.: (613) 957-0313
Fax: (613) 957-0946
E-mail: claire.chippindale@ceaa-acee.gc.ca