Bonnechere River Watershed Project

This reach is created by a natural constriction in the Bonnechere River at the First Chute.

The Renfrew sewage treatment plant returns treated water to the river at the upper end of this reach. The water flow requirements of this sewage treatment plant impact the waterpower production potential of the two Renfrew generating stations. Discussions between Renfrew Power Generation (RPG) and the Town of Renfrew may result in a minimum flow agreement that will meet the sewage treatment needs of the community.

Information needs from page 81 Bonnechere River Water Management Plan

1. Status of Amphibian and Reptile Populations: Only anecdotal information exists on the location and abundance of amphibian and reptile species (turtles are of special concern). Research needs to be expanded in this area. This is a system-wide information need that could be addressed in conjunction with fur-bearer research.
2. Minimum Flows: Specific minimum flows through each of the control structures on the Bonnechere River are required to maintain fish habitat and the overall health of the aquatic ecosystem. Those specific minimum flows need to be established and added to the operating regimes for the control structures on the river.
3. Monitor the Whole Fish Community: MNR has done some assessment of the fish community on the Bonnechere and will continue to monitor fish populations under the district fish and wildlife program.
4. Spawning and Spawning Habitat Assessment: It is recommended that the spawning patterns and specific locations of spawning sites in this reach be assessed.
   This information will be useful for updating operating regimes for the dams in Renfrew and upstream in order to maximize fish survival and optimize flows for power generation.

Forest Areas (click to enlarge)

Ownership (click to enlarge)

Soils (click to enlarge)