Hydro opportunity for First Nations community

A First Nations community will receive provincial dollars to investigate the feasibility of a small hydroelectric generating facility.

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation announced Tuesday that it is providing $100,000 for the Muskrat Dam First Nation to determine the feasibility of a one-megawatt power plant at Windigo Falls. If plans proceed, the new facility could create up to 10 jobs during construction, with two full-time positions left to operate it.

"Muskrat Dam’s proposal is a great example of how Ontario and First nations are working together to plan for a cleaner, greener, more-substantial future," said Ontario’s Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Chris Bentley.

The money will come from the NOHFC’s Northern Energy Program, which is set up to help northern businesses and organizations take advantage of energy opportunities by pursuing clean alternatives and reducing demand on external energy sources.

Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Michael Gravelle said the province is working with the First Nation’s leadership in an effort to help create a more sustainable future.