Eastmain-1-A powerhouse and Rupert diversion : environmental impact statement : summary report

Following an agreement signed in 2002 between the Government of Quebec and the Crees of Quebec, Hydro-Quebec plans to launch the Eastmain-1-A powerhouse and Rupert diversion project scheduled for commissioning in 2010-2011. The project involves building powerhouses and diverting part of the flow from the river into a reservoir to drive turbines at several powerhouses before being channelled to three existing generating stations. This project also requires building a series of hydraulic structures to direct the flow and keep the water diverted. The project also calls for the construction of a new drinking water plant at Waskaganish. The report first presents a justification and description of the project including: purpose, distributor needs, electricity exports and markets outside Quebec, economic aspects, description of the Rupert diversion and powerhouses, roadways, work camps, project schedule and costs. Next, the report provides the study area boundaries and a description of the biophysical and human environment including such topics as climate, hydrography, hydrology and hydraulics, geology and geomorphology, fish, vegetation, wildlife, and birds. Issues regarding the cultural environment, land use, heritage, and landscape were also addressed. The report also discusses public participation issues such as: conservation of fish and fish habitats in the Rupert River; continuation of Cree hunting, fishing and trapping; recreational and scenic values of the Rupert River; and, economic spinoffs for Cree and Jamesian communities. A summary of environmental impacts is provided including sources of impact; modifications to the physical environment; biological impacts; and, impacts on the human environment. Highlights by Cree community are then presented. Mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures and environmental compliance and follow-up programs are also discussed. 20 tabs., 7 figs