Main Stem - Gatineau Riverwatcher

The Gatineau Riverwatcher focuses his effort on the Ottawa River from the mouth of the Gatineau River to the mouth of the Blanche River.

In 1964, the Carillon dam raised the water level in this area by one meter, which flooded natural beaches. Since then, residential shoreline development has negatively impacted the banks of the river.

The Kettle, Upper Duck and Lower Duck Islands have remarkable flora and fauna. However, illegal camping and the pleasure boat docking has brought waste to the area and destroyed the extraordinary ecosystem of the islands. Ottawa Riverkeeper will work with Bowater to clean garbage from Kettle Island. If you are interested in helping us, please contact Philippe.

The threats have changed over the decades. Philippe remembers when logs were still driven down the river or when the wastewater from pulp and paper mills turned the river water grey.

Today, the water is considerably cleaner with a variety of water plants. But this part of the river faces new threats:

• Modification to the banks
• High-speed boats and their impact on the banks (erosion)
• Unrestricted access to the islands

Gatineau River Water Quality Report 2010
Results for the Water Quality Report 2010

Contact: Philippe Brennan by email.