| The Muskoka River Water Management
Plan (WMP) is being undertaken by the Ministry of Natural
Resources, Ontario Power Generation, Orillia Power Corporation,
Bracebridge Generation Ltd and Algonquin Power (the "project
proponents") to examine the present operation al management of
flows and water levels on rivers and lakes within the Muskoka
River system. The goal of water management planning is to
contribute to the environmental, social and economic development
of waterpower resources and to manage these resources in an
ecologically sustainable way for the benefit of present and future
generations.
Phase One of the project was initiated in
Spring 2002 with the commissioning of Acres and Associated
Environmental Limited to prepare a Background Information Report.
That process is now complete, and a final report is available for
public review and comment. The report summarizes available
information on the Muskoka River system, documents the results of
establishment of a computer simulation model of current operation
(baseline) conditions, and identifies current issues, concerns and
data gaps. The report is available in a downloadable format
at:
http://www.acres.com/muskokawmp. Primary issues and
concerns are also summarized on the website. |
|
Phase Two
(Spring 2003 - Spring 2004) involves the development of various
water management options and strategies to address issues and
concerns raised during Phase One, further consultation with
public, and the selection of a preferred Water Management Plan for
the Muskoka River system. The option development and
evaluation process will be completed by early Fall 2003, and
public comments on the preferred alternative will be sought at
that time. Newspaper notices will advise of the preferred
option. In addition a PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE will beheld at
the following time and location:
Friday October 3 (6:00-9:00) and Saturday
October 4 (10:00-3:00), 2003 at
Bracebridge Centennial Auditorium
111 Wellington Street, Bracebridge, Ontario
Further information on the status of the project and/or the
water management planning process is available from:
Kim Benner
Muskoka River WMP Coordinator
Ministry of Natural Resources
Bracebridge Area Office
RR2, Hwy 11N. at High Falls
Bracebridge, Ontario P1L 1W9
Phone: (705) 645-5520
Fax: (705)645-8372
Email: kim.benner@mnr.gov.on.ca
Please note that the comments and opinions will be kept on
file, and may be included in study documentation that will be
available for pubic review. However, personal information
will be treated in accordance with the Freedom of information and
Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). The Ministry may also use
this information to contact you to obtain public input on other
resource management surveys and projects. |