How Onimiki Impacts the Lake and River
The Onimiki Project is split between two generating centres, Onimiki South has a generator of 7 Kw in Temiscaming and Onimiki North is designed for a 60 Kw generator south of Laniel on Lake Temiscaming. The Onimiki North proposes diverting up to 80% of the current flow of water away from the Kipawa River and down a constructed tunnel 10 kilometers away from the current dam in Laniel. This change in lake currents and reduction of flows is concerning for the 10 km portion of Lake Kipawa affected by this change, and the Kipawa River. The map below outlines the proposed change in current and flow.
This affected portion of Lake Kipawa represents three of the most populated areas of the lake which require the current flow levels to maintain water quality. Along with water quality concerns, this reduction in flow for this area will have irreversible negative ecological impacts on this area of the lake and the Kipawa River. The proposed flow levels are outlined in the following chart shared at a meeting by the Onimiki staff March 18, 2024 in Temiscaming. https://onimiki.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/onimiki-presentation-temiscaming-mars-2025-fr-cr.pdf
The solid green line in the chart represents the median flow rate by date from 1987 to 2024. The dotted green line represents the daily flow rate of the Kipawa River should the proposed Onimiki North project move forward. The reduction in water flow is staggering, at it’s peak reaching a reduction of 80% from the current level.
The Kipawa River is a true gem of Quebec, celebrated by whitewater enthusiasts from around the world for its thrilling rapids, natural beauty and the legendary Grand Chutes. These spectacular falls are not only a highlight for adventurers but also a point of national pride, once featured on the Canadian $10 bill as a symbol of the country’s wild and untamed rivers. Today, the river’s reputation continues to grow with the creation of Opemican National Park, which protects its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural heritage. Whether paddling its exhilarating waters, hiking its scenic trails, or simply taking in the breathtaking view of the Grand Chutes, visitors to the Kipawa River experience a rare combination of excitement, beauty and history that makes it one of Canada’s most remarkable waterways. Ominiki North threatens this river diminishing it to 30% of what it currently represents. The river would be destroyed.