----- Deschenes Rapids

 

Safe boating & safe rescues could be predictable should the "ruins" be demolished.

Once there was enough hydro electric power produced by early generation run-of-the-river generators to power the electric tramway to Hull.   For all history buffs, those generators were at the centre of economic activity in Aylmer. Truly, the small power plant was efficient and economic.

Ottawa Hydro would take all of the power produced. Area residential and commercial projects in the Aylmer sector could benefit by such an input to the Hydro Quebec electrical generation grid.

Many years ago, a replacement plant was promoted without funding and credentials. Like Ottawa, maybe the Ville de Gatineau should own the utility built. Or maybe Hydro Quebec or hydro plant owner-operator Brookfield Renewable.

As for " noise concerns" that may be expressed about generators... I am confident that low-head turbine technologies available today are quiet!

The Deschenes Rapids Parc needs to be reimagined. Maintaining the " ruins" is an awful  thought. Is it possible that interest groups and local politicians might think about just how wonderful the potential of Hydro power is at the location? What a tourist attraction!

Let's get to work on this, as a progressive community!

Malcolm Thorne

Aylmer