Timiskaming Dam Complex: Quebec dam replacement project
Learn about the Quebec dam replacement project on the Timiskaming Dam Complex.
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Project overview
- Location
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Témiscaming, Quebec
Locate Timiskaming Dam Complex on a map - Type of project
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Replacement of the Quebec portion of the Timiskaming Dam Complex
- Lead department
- Construction firms
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On September 23, 2016, we awarded a $2.39 million engineering design contract to Tetra Tech QI Inc. for the replacement of the Quebec dam.
- Project status
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The project is in the design phase
- Next steps
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The design work will be completed after the environmental assessment process. We will then open bidding for the construction work. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed in 2030.
Project description
The old Quebec dam is nearing the end of its serviceable life. The purpose of this project is to build a new structure about 25 metres downstream of the existing dam. After the new structure is finished, we will demolish the old structure. The new dam will take over the task of regulating water flow in the river.
Like the old dam, the new dam will have a 2-lane roadway that connects the provinces of Quebec and Ontario.
The new structure will be approximately 75 metres long and will include 10 bays. The bays will have mechanical gates called sluice gates, instead of logs, making it easier to operate and regulate the flow of water. This modification will result in more efficient water-level management. It will also allow the dam to react quickly to significant weather events.
A new fish ladder is also being considered. The ladder would allow fish to pass from downstream to upstream of the structure. This fish passage is planned to be about 140 metres long. It would be located on Long Sault Island.
The existing roadway will remain open to commuters until the new dam is complete.
We will continue to work with the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board throughout construction to operate the dam and manage the Ottawa River’s reservoirs.
Environmental assessment
By summer 2024, we expect the Environmental Impact Statement will be considered final by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada. Shortly after, in fall 2024, a decision from the Minister of Environment and Climate Change is anticipated.
To date the following has happened:
- March 2023: the Environmental Impact Statement was qualified in conformance by the Agency, which led to their public consultation process
- October 2022: the Environmental Impact Statement was submitted to the Agency for the conformity review and a revised version was submitted in March 2023 for a second conformity review
- Spring and summer 2022: since the beginning of the environmental assessment process, we have actively engaged with Indigenous groups, sharing 2 draft reports with them for their review
- August 21, 2018: the Agency issued the final Environmental Impact Statement Guidelines for the preparation of an environmental impact statement
Consultation with Indigenous Peoples and accommodation
We are consulting with Indigenous Peoples to obtain their views on:
- the project
- the possible impacts of changes to the environment for Indigenous Peoples
- the possible adverse impacts of the project on potential or established Indigenous rights
The consultation respects the Crown’s constitutional duty to consult and accommodate Indigenous Peoples.
The goal of this consultation is to gather a nation-to-nation view that reflects a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples.
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