Environmental analysis report for the hydroelectric project on the Sheldrake River in the Courbe du Sault section in the municipality of Riviere-au-Tonnerre by the Societe d'energie riviere Sheldrake Inc

The Societe d'energie riviere Sheldrake Inc. (SERS Inc.) is planning to exploit the hydroelectric potential of the Sheldrake River in the Quebec municipality of Riviere au Tonnere. The proposed project will involve building a hydroelectric power station with a maximum capacity of 25 MW on the Sheldrake River, in the Courbe du Sault section. The project will also comprise a dam, a water reservoir and an overflow spillway. The project meets the province's 2006-2015 energy strategy to develop small-scale hydroelectric facilities. The project was subject to an environmental assessment as required by the province of Quebec. This environmental analysis addressed the major challenges facing the hydroelectric development at the Courbe du Sault section of the River, notably the impact on fish habitat, wetlands and the local and regional economic benefits. The environmental assessment did not indicate any habitat destruction for trout or salmon in the forebay. The Quebec Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks has deemed the project to be acceptable given that certain conditions are met, including thresholds to stabilize the water level and the construction of a downstream fish passage facility to allow for safe fish migration. 22 refs., 2 tabs., 5 figs., 3 appendices.