The Town of Blind River has shared an update on the Matinenda launch dock replacement. Please review the attached notice and follow all guidance while the work is underway.
Please note that the launch will be closed for the entire day during the dock replacement. We recognize that this may be challenging for some users, so we ask that you share this information as broadly as possible to help ensure that no one is caught off guard and unable to launch or retrieve their boat.
Please note that this project involves the replacement of the dock only and does not include any changes to the actual boat launch entry.
Dear Lake Matinenda Cottage Owners Association Members,
On behalf of the Board, we hope your winter season is going well wherever the roads or trails have taken you!
The following provides information regarding a proposed Hydro One project to upgrade hydro transmission capacity in northeastern Ontario. Please review the materials and let us know if you have any questions or concerns. The LMCOA Board will continue to monitor the project’s progress and keep members informed.
The project team has shared the following purpose for the initiative:
“The project is dedicated to fostering growth in northeast Ontario. Once built, the Northeast Power Line will meet the increasing demand for energy driven by innovation and economic development. This new line will bring additional power to the region and improve the overall resilience of the northern Ontario transmission network.
When completed, the 500-kilovolt line between Hanmer Transformer Station (TS) in Greater Sudbury and Mississagi TS near Wharncliffe will reinforce the transmission system in northeast Ontario and support the growing electricity demands of industries, businesses, and residents.”
One of our board Directors, Gary MacLeod, attended an open house for the project, the learnings are shared in the attached document. The proposed transmission line would be constructed adjacent to the existing corridor. Included below are diagrams outlining the proposed route and project timeline.
The following links provide additional project information: Under the Project Information link they share a phone number (1-877-345-6799) and email where you can contact the project with any questions or concerns prior to March 19, 2026.:
The charts below share a picture of where the proposed power line will be which is adjacent to existing along with a schedule of the anticipated project dates.
We will keep tracking this effort – sincerely,
Your LMCOA Board
LMCOA Board assessment: Overall, the updated approach appears more detailed and environmentally protective than past practices.
Vegetation Management Changes:
Hydro One has updated how it controls tree and brush growth along the transmission corridor.
Previously used: Tordon 101
Now using: Navius (systemic herbicide) and Garlon RTV (applied directly to stumps)
These products are used to prevent tree regrowth, stump sprouting, and new seed germination.
Herbicide use is now:
Less frequent — about every 8–10 years (previously 5–7 years)
More targeted — applied only where needed, not broadly across the entire corridor
Assessment-based — drone surveys are used to determine whether spraying is necessary before any application occurs
Ground Cover Strategy
A stump and brush grinding machine is used to clear obstacles and expose soil so low ground cover (such as clover) can grow.
Benefits of this approach:
Thick ground cover shades the soil and reduces tree seed germination
Slows regrowth of brush and trees
Extends the time between herbicide applications
Water and Environmental Protection
Ground cover helps keep soil cooler and reduces heated rainwater runoff into streams.
This is important because:
Cold-water fish such as Lake Trout require cold, oxygen-rich water
Warmer runoff could affect aquatic ecosystems and species balance
Hydro One has indicated that:
Protective setback distances are maintained from water bodies
Herbicides are not sprayed near lakes or streams
This is particularly relevant since some local residents draw drinking water from nearby lakes.
Visual Impact and Corridor Width
New 500kV towers will be built at similar elevations and just south of the existing line
The corridor will widen to approximately 1.5 times its current width
The land was originally set aside for two transmission lines, though only one was constructed previously
The expansion remains within the original easement boundaries.
Stronger Environmental Standards
The new project reflects updated environmental regulations and oversight compared to the 1980s–1990s when the first line was built.
The current plan includes:
Pre-approved mitigation measures
Environmental monitoring during construction
Ongoing oversight for long-term maintenance
Overall, the updated approach appears more detailed and environmentally protective than past practices.
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