Energy

Ontario lifts moratorium on lakebed development

In January the Ontario government lifted a moratorium on lakebed development, paving the way for the exploration of wind farms on the Ontario side of the Great Lakes.

Great Lakes United has long supported a role for wind energy in the region’s power production. However, the environmental impact of these developments must be carefully assessed. The development of lakebeds is a new frontier, and should not be pursued without first understanding the environmental and legal implications.

In 2006 Great Lakes United developed guidelines for utility construction in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Our plan calls for a broader suite of pre-planning that looks at the entire lake to determine if, and where, projects should be sited. In our view, this plan and the necessary safeguards for aquatic habitat are not yet in place. This risks a minefield of precedent-setting piecemeal development that could undermine the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

As a first priority, and before any new development by Ontario or any other jurisdictions, we want to determine if new energy projects belong in the Great Lakes. As a start, areas that should be protected from any significant lakebed alterations should be mapped, and locations for sitting projects in areas that can tolerate such disturbances located. A clear and substantial public benefit is also essential—including the reduction of electric generation from coal-fired power plants or nuclear waste generating–facilities—before authorizing such uses. We urge that fair market value be collected for the use of bottomlands, including lease costs and that this money be dedicated to protection and restoration of the Great Lakes. Finally, we believe that long-term ecological monitoring should be performed, paid for by those who undertake projects that alter lakebed habitat, and provide for adjustment or disapproval of projects that impair the trust values of bottomlands.

Wind power, like any energy source, is not without its risks. Though these risks may differ from other forms of energy production, this does not mean we should be making careless decisions. ‘Green’ projects must still undergo serious environmental assessment with full opportunity for public input. Now that Ontario has lifted its moratorium, it has committed itself to ensuring the safe development of our lakebeds. Let’s hope we’re not disappointed.

© 2008 Great Lakes News.