River Magpie
Photo credit: Fondation Rivières
Adopt the Magpie River to:
- Prevent any unjustified hydroelectric dam project
- Support regional ecotourism development of the river
- Claim the creation of a protected area
Your contribution allows us to continue to protect Quebec's rivers
The Magpie River is one of the most majestic rivers in Quebec. Just like the Romaine before its harnessing, it flows into Minganie in an untouched wild landscape, and conceals rich and fascinating ecosystems! A true playground for thrill-seekers, the Magpie promises anyone who has the privilege of venturing there an unforgettable experience that makes you want to protect it.
Do you know the Magpie River?
Innu name
Mutehekau Hipu (“the river where the water passes between square rock cliffs”)
Region
North Coast
Length
200km
Average flow
250 m3/s
Source
Labrador Plateau
Memorable expedition
Certain sections of the river – the West Magpie and the lower Magpie – represent a true paradise for paddlers: the Magpie is even classified among the 10 Best Whitewater Rivers in the World by National Geographic! Since its rapids are steep and difficult to access (by seaplane only), it is better to go there with an organizing group. The proposed expeditions last approximately five days. It is also an extraordinary place for hiking, an activity more accessible than going down the river. The very impressive Third Falls can also be observed from a walking path.
Rights, like a human being
Despite its unique character, the Magpie River is not safe from the construction of a hydroelectric complex, as it already has a dam at the mouth of the St. Lawrence. To prevent this jewel from suffering the same fate as the Romaine, strong initiatives have been set in motion: theAlliance Mutehekau-shipu fought for make him recognize his rights, a first in the country, and the Society for Nature and Parks (SNAP) Quebec is also working to create a protected area.
What are the challenges of the Magpie River?
River harnessing - Hydroelectric dam construction
In its 2009-2013 strategic plan, Hydro-Québec estimated that Magpie has a potential of 850 megawatt hours (MW) of power and 3.8 terawatt hours (TWh) of energy. When the plan was released, the president at the time indicated that the development of the Magpie was possible after 2025. The strategic plan 2022-2026 does not plan any construction of new dams before 2050.
However, the Legault government estimates that it is necessary to build them to increase electricity production at the rate of “half a Hydro-Québec” to meet the projected needs resulting from Quebec's energy transition. This announcement also relaunches the social debate on the management of electricity, including the construction of wind turbines and new hydroelectric dams.
Call on the government to protect the last wild rivers from dams
The Fondation Rivières initiated an expedition to recognize the recreational tourism potential of the Magpie in 2004, when it was threatened by the construction of a private hydroelectric dam. Groups and public figures were also there, such as the SNAP Quebec, International Rivers Network, Nature Quebec, Greenpeace as well as Robert Francis Kennedy Jr.
Depuis, la Fondation Rivières a participé à des audiences publiques sur la création d’une aire protégée. Elle défend la Magpie de façon « macro » au moyen de campagnes de sensibilisation, d’analyses, de recommendations and memories (The Roman, 11th fall of the Mistassini River, Val Jalbert, etc.). Following the release of the documentary After the Roman, la Fondation Rivières et des collaborateurs se sont unis pour inciter le gouvernement à réaliser la transition énergétique en respect des last wild rivers, y compris la Magpie. Nous continuons de nous mobiliser contre les développements hydroélectriques injustifiés.
Can you swim in the Magpie River?
The Magpie River is a wild river, far from cities and their sewer networks. The risk of contaminationE.coli is tiny, despite the presence of certain birds, so that some people drink river water without hesitation!
Is the Magpie River navigable?
Yes! Discover the canoe routes of the Magpie River in accessing the Canot Kayak Québec and Eau Vive Québec map
Help us by adopting the Magpie River
The Fondation Rivières is mobilizing on this river to:
- Prevent any unjustified hydroelectric dam project
- Support regional ecotourism development of the river
- Claim the creation of a protected area
Donate and join an important mobilization movement!
Charity receipt
Fondation Rivières issues tax-deductible donation receipts, regardless of the amount. A receipt will be sent to you by email at the beginning of the year following the year of your adoption.
Organizations involved in the field
The Magpie River was adopted by
Our articles on the Magpie River
Sources
- The Magpie River: a world-class river to protect, Outdoor expertise and research laboratory (LERPA) of the University of Quebec in Chicoutimi, June 2013
- Quebec Toponymy Commission
