Nov 272008
- Is there a danger that Bala Bay will be used as a reservoir to enable profitable running of the plant?
YES! – On top of the already-subsidized 11.08¢ per kilowatt hour, this plant would receive a 3.5¢ per kilowatt hour bonus if regularly operated during peak demand time of day. The only way that can happen would mean starting the plant in the morning and stopping it in the evening. This stoppage of flow and then release of the water would cause twice daily water level fluctuations in both Lake Muskoka and the Moon River. - Would the increased fluctuation in water levels affect property values and taxes?
YES! – Water level instability and safety factors affect property values. There are thousands of boathouses, docks and other shoreline improvements that could be damaged by man made fluctuations in the water level. - Should we care about water levels?
YES! – Consistent water levels during the main boating mean safe navigation.- Consistent water levels contribute to the market value of your property, and are needed for safe docking of boats and accessing some boathouses.
- Unnatural fluctuations in water levels disrupt and destroy waterfowl and fish habitats.
- Unnatural fluctuations in winter water levels would mean unsafe ice conditions and accelerated damage to shoreline structures.
- Does fast water inhibit recreational activities?
YES – Fast and turbulent water makes recreational activities like boating, fishing and swimming very dangerous and potentially deadly.