Statement from Nalcor on Muskrat Falls

The following statement is issued from Nalcor Energy:

Nalcor agrees that the safety and health of people living and working in and around the Muskrat Falls site is the number one priority.

In response to commitments agreed upon in October 2016 by Government and Indigenous leaders, and direction from the Premier to lower water levels on June 21, 2017, the Lower Churchill Project’s engineering consultant, SNC-Lavalin, provided operational guidance in relation to reducing water levels.

Understanding the commitment made to Indigenous groups; in spring/summer 2017 Nalcor sought further engineering assistance as to how best to undertake the reduction in water levels. We undertook this work keeping safety top-of-mind and lowered water levels in the Muskrat Falls reservoir from 22.5 metres to 20.3 metres. The average water level in the reservoir during spring conditions is 20.0 metres.

While lowering water levels, regular inspections were undertaken. During some aerial surveys, engineers expressed concerns about the erosion of some of the banks upstream of the facility. In the interest of public safety, Nalcor did not reduce water levels beyond the 20.3 metres.

Over the summer, Nalcor undertook further mitigation measures within the Muskrat Falls reservoir below the 25 metre water elevation level. Approximately 40 hectares of trees were cleared on Edwards Island and associated access roads and river banks. The clearing was completed in early August.

Nalcor engaged with and shared information regarding Muskrat Falls water levels with Indigenous leaders and Government throughout this process. During the meeting on September 6, Nalcor was asked by the province to explore all opportunities to reduce the water levels in the reservoir to those typical of natural spring conditions. Nalcor was requested by stakeholders to have SNC-Lavalin facilitate a meeting with the Independent Expert Advisory Committee (IEAC) which occurred on September 8.

Nalcor understands people’s concerns and fully supports the IEAC and awaits further guidance regarding any additional mitigation measures.