Topic:"Renewable Energy" in M11927

From: [Painting-MacLean, Kimberly](mailto:[email protected]) To: [Painting-MacLean, Kimberly](mailto:[email protected]) Subject: FW: M11927 Date: October 21, 2024 1:45:03 PM From: Kevin Mullen <[...

AI summary GreenQuest Power proposes to acquire and refurbish hydropower assets in Nova Scotia, offering a long-term power purchase agreement. The acquisition aims to reduce risks for ratepayers and provide a stable, cost-effective power supply through modern refurbishment standards.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 15 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description. A redacted image is included on page 27.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 16 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, accompanied by an image. It includes a reference to environmental considerations and is part of a regulatory proceeding in Nova Scotia.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 17 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description and a redacted image. Key details are not visible due to confidentiality.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 18 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is referenced on page 30.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 20 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and its environmental description, including a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 24 of 35 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX B – SITE PHOTOS

AI summary This document provides an overview of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including an appendix with site photos. The photos are part of the environmental description of the project.

4.1 Drawdown Methodology NS Power intends to approach the drawdown of Ruth Falls Headpond the same way as all previous drawdowns conducted on its various hydro systems. Based on operational experience, the drawdown of Ruth Falls to elevati...

AI summary NS Power plans to draw down the Ruth Falls Headpond to 98.0 ft using a controlled method similar to previous hydro system drawdowns. The process will use generating units and stoplog bays to manage discharge rates, ensuring minimal erosion and environmental impact. Spill rates exceeding 500 cfs are common, and NS Power will monitor for scour and report to the Department of Environment and Climate Change if necessary.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 7 Page 51 of 103 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) List of Figures Figure 1: Wetland Locations 3 List of Tables Table 2.1: Species of Conservation Concern and Species at Risk reported from within 5 km...

AI summary The document contains a list of figures and tables related to the Tusket Hydro Dam Refurbishment Project. It includes information about species of conservation concern, candidate wetland monitoring stations, and ecosystem functions and benefits assessed.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 9 Page 14 of 55 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and its environmental description, including a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 9 Page 15 of 55 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description Flow in the area is controlled by NSPI Hydro O...

AI summary The Sheet Harbour Hydro System's Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project involves managing water levels and flows to support fish migration, particularly for Atlantic salmon and American eel. Environmental assessments indicate low salmon returns and concerns about mercury contamination. Water quality parameters are generally good, though some metals exceed guidelines. Wetlands and rare species were assessed, with no significant impacts expected from the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 9 Page 17 of 55 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description Once the sluiceways are isolated, installation...

AI summary The document discusses the installation of sluice gates at the Ruth Falls Dam as part of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System project. It mentions that installation can commence once the sluiceways are isolated.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 9 Page 18 of 55 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description Figure 1: Location of Access Infrastructure an...

AI summary The document provides a description of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project, including figures that show the location of access infrastructure and a new control building.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 9 Page 31 of 55 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX C – ENGINEERING DRAWINGS CI 50518 CA...

AI summary The document provides information about the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project, including engineering drawings and an environmental description. The appendix contains technical drawings and is part of a regulatory proceeding in Nova Scotia.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 1 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Environmental & Project Description for Construction Activities Addendum Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 2022 Sheet Harbour Hyd...

AI summary This document provides an environmental and project description for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System in 2022, focusing on the installation of a sluice gate.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 6 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description NS Power has provided details surrounding datu...

AI summary NS Power has provided details about discrepancies in datum related to the minimum operating levels of the reservoir (109.4ft and 109.2ft) in relation to the new rubberdam crest in the Existing Project Area section.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 8 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description higher returns are observed in the East River...

AI summary The Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project involves environmental considerations, including the presence of mercury in local fish species and the observation of Barn Swallow nests. NS Power has received a permit to manage these nests and mitigate their impact during construction.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 9 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and its environmental description. It includes a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 11 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The text discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is referenced on page 16.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 13 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description The estimated maximum discharge flows through...

AI summary This section discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System's Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project, including an environmental description and estimated maximum discharge flows through the gates as shown in Table 2.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 14 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is also referenced.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 19 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and its environmental description, highlighting the project's scope and potential environmental impacts.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 24 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is referenced but not included in the text.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 28 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX B – SITE PHOTOS

AI summary This section of the document provides an overview of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project, including an environmental description and site photos from Appendix B.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 31 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Photo 4: Downstream of Ruth Falls Dam Photo 5. Upstream of Ruth Falls Dam

AI summary The document includes redacted pages from a regulatory proceeding, with photos of Ruth Falls Dam, both downstream and upstream, indicating the focus on infrastructure and potential environmental or regulatory considerations related to the dam.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 11 Page 33 of 34 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX D – ENGINEERING DRAWINGS

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an appendix with engineering drawings. The content is redacted due to confidential information being removed.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 1 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Environmental & Project Description for Construction Activities Addendum Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 2022 CI 50518 CA IR-5...

AI summary This document provides an environmental and project description for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment in the Sheet Harbour Hydro System in 2022, including an addendum and details about the sluice gate installation project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 6 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document describes the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is referenced on page 57.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 16 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document provides an environmental description of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project, including a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 20 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and its environmental description, including a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 24 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and its environmental description, including a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 26 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is referenced, indicating the presence of confidential or sensitive information.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 36 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX D – ENGINEERING DRAWINGS CI 50518 CA...

AI summary The document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes engineering drawings. It is part of a regulatory proceeding in Nova Scotia.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 14 Page 58 of 59 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX E – NS WATERCOURSE ALTERNATION SIZIN...

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Sluice Gate Installation Project and includes an appendix with sizing calculations related to watercourse alternation.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 1 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Environmental & Project Description for Construction Activities Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 2024 CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachme...

AI summary The document outlines the environmental and project description for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System in 2024. It includes details about construction activities and their environmental implications.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 7 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Water levels in Ruth Headpond can fluctuate between the...

AI summary The Ruth Falls Dam refurbishment project involves adjusting the minimum operating level of the Ruth Headpond to 109.25 ft, aligning with engineering drawings and Dam Safety Reviews. The project includes maintaining ecological flows for fish passage and addressing discrepancies in datum measurements. Environmental considerations include water levels, fish species, and spill management during construction.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 9 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description. A redacted image is included, likely showing details of the project or its environmental impact.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 12 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour, Nova Scotia, and includes an environmental description. A redacted image is also included, likely showing details related to the project or its environmental impact.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 13 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Following the completion of refurbishment activities, t...

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, noting that following refurbishment, the headpond will be recharged at a controlled rate.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 15 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Armour stone will be placed on the upstream side of the...

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including measures to reinforce the downstream access road with armour stone and details about discharge flows through various structures, such as the open sluice bays, uncontrolled spillway opening, and bridge opening, as outlined in Table 2 and Section 4.4.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 16 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description and it is expected that in the event of increased water...

AI summary NS Power is refurbishing the Ruth Falls Dam, ensuring water levels can be managed during construction. They have contingency plans for extreme weather and will maintain minimum fish passage requirements, with temporary adjustments during the centre sluice bay construction.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 17 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description The maximum mean annual flows for the Ruth Falls headpo...

AI summary The text discusses the calculation of maximum mean annual flows for the Ruth Falls headpond using a 2008 flood study, a 6-hour sub basin unit hydrograph, and rainfall data from Shearwater Airport. The results are presented in Table 3.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 21 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description For full hydraulic modeling results and interpretation...

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, mentioning environmental considerations and referencing hydraulic modeling results from Thaumus Environmental found in Appendix F.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 27 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour, including its environmental description. It is part of a regulatory proceeding and contains confidential information that has been redacted.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 32 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document provides an environmental description of the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in the Sheet Harbour Hydro System. It includes a redacted image and is part of a larger regulatory proceeding.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 34 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including its environmental description. It includes a redacted image referenced as page 170, Picture 3.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 42 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX C – PROPOSED WATER MANAGEMENT STRUCTURES CI 50...

AI summary This document discusses the proposed water management structures for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an appendix and associated figures.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 407 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX I – Upstream Eel Passage

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including an appendix on upstream eel passage. It includes a redacted page and a referenced image.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 410 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Figure 1: Bottom flow patterns (coloured by velocity) below the refurbished dam.

AI summary The document includes a figure titled 'Figure 1: Bottom flow patterns (coloured by velocity) below the refurbished dam.' This visual representation likely illustrates hydrodynamic conditions post-refurbishment, which may be relevant to environmental or engineering assessments.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 19 Page 416 of 423 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX J – Communication Plan Ruth Falls Main Dam Re...

AI summary This document outlines the communication plan for the Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment Project, part of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, with a focus on environmental considerations and stakeholder engagement. The project is associated with NSE Application #2019-2638165-00 and Revision 2 dated February 8, 2023.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 1 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Environmental & Project Description for Construction Activities Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 2024

AI summary This document provides an environmental and project description for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment as part of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System in 2024. It outlines construction activities associated with the refurbishment project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 6 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including its environmental description. It outlines the scope of the project and its potential environmental impacts.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 7 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Governor Reservoir is located at the head waters of Twel...

AI summary The document describes the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and the environmental context of the area. It outlines the hydrological features of the system, the location and function of key reservoirs and generating stations, and the fish passage structures at the Ruth Falls Dam.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 8 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description between April 1-November 30 as 109.4 ft. The engineering...

AI summary The Ruth Falls Dam refurbishment project involves adjusting the dam's structure and ensuring compliance with ecological maintenance flows. The project maintains the current minimum operating level of the reservoir. Ecological considerations include maintaining flows for fish passage and addressing water quality concerns. Mercury contamination has been observed in certain fish species, but no invasive species or critical habitat for at-risk aquatic species were found.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 14 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project under the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including its environmental description. It is part of a regulatory proceeding and contains confidential information that has been redacted.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 15 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary This document provides information on the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour, including environmental considerations related to the hydro system. The content includes a redacted image and is part of a larger regulatory proceeding.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 16 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description. A redacted image is included on page 177.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 19 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Figure 2: Elevation Storage Curve for Ruth Falls The st...

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, focusing on storage capacity and flood management. It references the elevation storage curve, available storage between different elevations, and the use of a 2008 flood study to calculate maximum mean annual flows.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 23 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description cfs), will be maintained as the minimum ecological flow...

AI summary The document discusses the environmental considerations and flow management measures for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including maintaining minimum ecological flow, modifications to fish ladder systems, and supplemental flow provisions to ensure optimal fish passage and ecological conditions.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 24 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description Figure 3: Site diagram outlining refurbishments associa...

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including a site diagram that outlines refurbishments related to upstream and downstream fish passage. The text is part of a regulatory proceeding and includes confidential information that has been redacted.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 25 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description dwelling species such as American eel, Brown bullhead,...

AI summary The text discusses the environmental considerations of the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including measures to protect fish species such as American eel and Brown bullhead, and the realignment of the bypass outfall to meet water depth criteria for fish passage.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 34 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description. It includes a redacted image related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 35 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including its environmental description. It includes a redacted image and is part of a larger regulatory proceeding.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 36 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description. A redacted image is included, likely showing details of the project or its environmental impact.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 37 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description

AI summary The document discusses the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in Sheet Harbour Hydro System, including an environmental description and a redacted image. It is part of a larger regulatory proceeding.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 381 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX G – Fish Passage Assessment

AI summary This document discusses the Fish Passage Assessment for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project as part of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System. The assessment is included in Appendix G of the submission.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 391 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX H – Louvre Assessment

AI summary This document discusses the Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project, including an appendix on the Louvre Assessment. The content is redacted due to the inclusion of confidential information.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 392 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Kailey Osborne, Environmental Scientist Nova Scotia Power [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) January 31, 2023 Re: Concept...

AI summary Kailey Osborne from Nova Scotia Power submitted a concept design report regarding the downstream passage of Silver Stage Eels at Ruth Falls Dam on January 31, 2023.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 393 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Major changes were undertaken during the rebuild of the louver bypass exit and monitoring shed operations based on Nova Scotia Power plans dated in...

AI summary The document describes modifications to the louver bypass exit and monitoring shed operations based on Nova Scotia Power plans from 2006. Changes included adjusting the louver exit to a surface outlet to improve salmon smolt migration and reconstructing the intake canal to enhance conveyance capacity.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 404 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) - 3) The bypass pipe outfall drop to the river and plunge pool as currently operating meets the drop and depth requirements to ensure it is safe for...

AI summary The document discusses the current and proposed modifications to fish passage systems at a dam site, focusing on eel passage and the effectiveness of the louvers and bypass channel. It highlights the need for monitoring studies and adjustments to ensure safe passage for all species, including eels, following construction modifications.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 407 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX I – Upstream Eel Passage

AI summary This document discusses the Upstream Eel Passage as part of the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project in the Sheet Harbour Hydro System. It includes an image and is part of a larger environmental description related to the project.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 21 Page 416 of 465 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Project and Environmental Description APPENDIX J – Communication Plan Ruth Falls Main Dam Re...

AI summary This document outlines the communication plan for the Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment Project, part of the Sheet Harbour Hydro System. It is associated with NSE Application #2019-2638165-00 and was revised on February 8, 2023.

Overview The Sheet Harbour Hydro system, including generation at Malay Falls and Ruth Falls has been providing clean, renewable electricity to Nova Scotians for nearly one hundred years. The system requires maintenance and upgrades to ensu...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power plans to refurbish the Ruth Falls Main Dam, including replacing stoplog bays with rubber inflatable dams and sluice gates. The project requires regulatory approvals and involves lowering the headpond temporarily. A habitat offsetting project with the Mi'kmaw Conservation Group and NS Salmon Association is also part of the effort to support Atlantic Salmon recovery.

CI 50518 - HYD - Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment ATO (NSUARB M11927) NSPI Responses to The Industrial Group Information Requests 1 Request IR-3: 5 (c) Can the Malay Falls hydro generating station still produce energy, if Ruth Falls were...

AI summary NSPI responds to a request regarding the decommissioning of Ruth Falls Generating Station, stating that Malay Falls could still generate energy but would require additional investment to maintain tailwater levels. The station has a remaining life of at least 14 years for major components and is part of the long-term investment plan for small hydro assets.

CI 50518 - HYD - Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment ATO (NSUARB M11927) NSPI Responses to NSUARB Information Requests 1 (f) The following scope of work was included as part of the Limited Notice to Proceed: 2 • Environmental management; 3 •...

AI summary The document outlines the scope of work for the Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment ATO, including environmental management, water control, and procurement activities. It also discusses revised costs for the Rubber Dam Installation due to a competitive RFP process and the need for a proactive inspection of the rubber dams due to storage delays.

B. PRELIMINARY SCHEDULES Nova Scotia Power Inc. In Response to RFP P-20-259-01 Tel: 902-883-0616 Fax: 902-883-8900 [email protected] REDACTED CI 50518 NSUARB IR-11 Attachment 2 Page 11 of 66 Nova Scotia POWER An Emera Company RE...

AI summary This section of the document includes preliminary schedules related to the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment RFP-P-20-259-01, submitted by Nova Scotia Power Inc., an Emera company. The content includes contact information and page numbers for the attachment.

REDACTED CI 50518 NSUARB IR-11 Attachment 2 Page 22 of 66 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) REDACTED CI 50518 NSUARB IR-11 Attachment 2 Page 23 of 66 Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment RFP-P-20-259-01 B. DETAILED SAFERTY PLAN (CORPORAT...

AI summary The document includes a redacted page from a regulatory proceeding, featuring a request for proposal (RFP) related to the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment and a detailed safety plan, including corporate safety policy and personal protective equipment requirements.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 2 Page 43 of 50 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment Application for Authorization – 34.4(2)(b) and 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Supporting Information conveyance system, passa...

AI summary This document outlines the application for authorization related to the refurbishment of the Ruth Falls Dam, including measures to ensure fish passage, dewatering of the fishladder, and construction activities such as the installation of new spillway sections and sluice gates.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 4 Page 5 of 57 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment S 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Authorization Supporting Information #1 Monitoring Activities material for use in the cofferd...

AI summary The document outlines the planned refurbishment of the Ruth Falls Dam, including the drawdown of the headpond, construction of temporary access paths, demolition of existing structures, installation of new sluiceway components, and construction of a free overflow spillway. Work is expected to continue until March 2022 to account for weather and construction delays.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 4 Page 9 of 57 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment S 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Authorization Supporting Information #1 Monitoring Activities personnel. The system will be m...

AI summary The document outlines NS Power's plan for water management during the Ruth Falls Dam refurbishment, including continuous downstream discharge to maintain fish passage and comply with regulatory requirements. The proposed system has been used successfully by the Halifax Regional Municipality, and NS Power intends to seek a variance from ECC for modifications to flow releases.

2.0 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK, UNDERTAKING OR ACTIVITY NS Power is proposing refurbishment of the Ruth Falls Dam (the "Project"), located on the Sheet Harbour Hydro System in Sheet Harbour NS, in 2022. This work is necessary to address...

AI summary NS Power is proposing to refurbish the Ruth Falls Dam in 2022 to address structural deficiencies and meet dam safety guidelines. The project includes replacing stoplog bays with rubber dams and vertical lift gates, as well as constructing a free overflow spillway. Phase 1 involves the installation of sluiceway gates, which has already been approved.

Temporary loss of fish habitat (approximately 1.15 km2 ) due to lowering of the reservoir beyond the minimum operating level observed from April 1 – Nov. 30 annually. Lowering the headpond approximately 18' is required in order to complete...

AI summary The temporary loss of fish habitat due to lowering the Ruth Falls dam's headpond is a necessary step for refurbishment. NS Power acknowledges the impact and proposes mitigation measures, such as controlled drawdown and maintaining water flow for fish spawning.

Potential Effect Measure to Mitigate Serious Harm Potential downstream scour during drawdown of reservoir. NS Power will use the Ruth Falls generating units to initially lower the headpond elevation from full supply level at 110.5 ft to th...

AI summary The text discusses the potential downstream scour during the drawdown of a reservoir at Ruth Falls and the measures NS Power will take to mitigate this risk. The drawdown will be controlled using specific infrastructure, and if scour is observed, NS Power will report to NS Environment and Climate Change and make repairs.

Potential Effect Measure to Mitigate Serious Harm Potential Residual Serious Harm to Fish Potential downstream scour during drawdown of reservoir. NS Power will use the Ruth Falls generating units to initially lower the headpond elevation...

AI summary The document outlines measures by NS Power to mitigate potential downstream scour during reservoir drawdown at Ruth Falls. The drawdown will be controlled using generating units and a vertical lift gate, with discharge limited to 500 cfs. Bedrock and boulders downstream reduce erosion risks, and NS Power will report any scour to NS Environment and Climate Change and make repairs if needed.

2.1 Existing Project Area Ruth Falls Headpond is located immediately downstream of the Malay Falls Headpond. The reservoir is contained by a 190 m (620') long earthfill embankment and a 150 m (490') long concrete spillway structure. The sp...

AI summary The Ruth Falls Headpond is part of a hydroelectric project with specific structural and operational features, including spillways, fish migration systems, and flow management. The document discusses the replacement of sluiceway components and the importance of maintaining minimum water levels for fish migration, particularly for Atlantic salmon.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 70 of 132 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment S 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Authorization Monitoring Plan - ix. Replacement of the west retaining wall, to the west of the f...

AI summary NS Power is proposing to lower the Ruth Falls Headpond as part of the refurbishment of the Ruth Falls Dam, citing it as the safest and most efficient method. The plan includes mitigation measures to address environmental and archaeological risks, as well as safety concerns for employees and contractors.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 71 of 132 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment S 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Authorization Monitoring Plan Work is proposed to extend until March 2023 to accommodate shorter...

AI summary The Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment project's timeline is being extended until March 2023 to account for shorter days, potential weather delays, and slower concrete curing during winter. NS Power will raise the headpond to its normal operating level before the 2023 upstream alewife migration in April.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 77 of 132 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment S 35(2)(b) Fisheries Act Authorization Monitoring Plan It is expected that elevations in the headpond will fluctuate thro...

AI summary The document outlines a monitoring plan for the Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment, addressing water management during construction. It discusses how water will be discharged through various sluice gates, contingency planning for headpond elevation fluctuations, and the installation timeline of vertical lift gates to ensure continuous water passage.

PROPOSED PROJECTS: PROJECT #1: Main Branch, West River (Marinette) Estimated area: 5,000 m 2 proposed in this work. Part of a larger 20,090 m 2 segment Primary Issue: The main West River has been over-widened, straightened and has lost its...

AI summary Project #1 at Main Branch, West River proposes restoring 5,000 m² of the river to improve Atlantic Salmon habitat. The site was previously treated for acid rain impacts and has prior restoration work. The project includes rock deflectors and woody debris to restore natural flow and increase habitat diversity.

CI 50518 CA IR-5 Attachment 1 Page 125 of 132 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Estimated cost: Based on our 2016-2018 project in this area, we would estimate the total cost of completing this work to be approx. $125,000 + tax fo...

AI summary The estimated cost for a habitat restoration project is approximately $156,750, including contractor and consultant fees, with additional costs dependent on DFO-mandated monitoring. The project is located downstream at coordinates 45.9718°, -062.6383°, and involves coordination with NSSA and local Mi'kmaw community members.

6.1 Regular Operations Inflows into the Ruth falls reservoir are controlled by NS Power Hydro Operations. Water levels can fluctuate between the full supply level of 33.7 m (110.5'), minimum supply level of 33.3 m (109.25'), and the low su...

AI summary NS Power manages the Ruth Falls reservoir's inflows and water levels, maintaining specific flows for fish passage and operational needs. Refurbishments will include changes to the bypass pipe and the installation of an eel ramp, requiring additional maintenance flows to support fish migration.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 41 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) NS Power is committing to assessing the effectiveness of the proposed eel ramp as passing elvers / juvenile eels. Details surrounding the study...

AI summary NS Power is committed to evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed eel ramp in facilitating the passage of elvers and juvenile eels. The study plan and monitoring plan are detailed in Appendices K and Q.

he possibility for entrainment of fish is low. A flow of 45 cfs from Malay Falls will continue to flow through Ruth Falls Headpond coupled with natural inflows from Grant River and other sources will provide enough water for salmon and sea...

AI summary The text discusses the environmental impact of the Ruth Falls Dam refurbishment, noting low fish entrainment risk and measures to maintain water flow for salmon and sea trout. Temporary habitat loss is acknowledged, with offsetting measures proposed to mitigate this impact.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 102 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) 2009 / 2010 Eel Study Summary Ruth Falls Downstream Louvre System Figure 1: Current Ruth Falls Downstream Louvre System

AI summary The text references a 2009/2010 Eel Study Summary related to the Ruth Falls Downstream Louvre System, including figures that depict the current system. The content is marked as REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED).

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 274 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Kailey Osborne, Environmental Scientist Nova Scotia Power [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) January 31, 2023 Re: Co...

AI summary Kailey Osborne from Nova Scotia Power submitted a concept design report regarding the downstream passage of Silver Stage Eels at Ruth Falls Dam on January 31, 2023.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 275 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Major changes were undertaken during the rebuild of the louver bypass exit and monitoring shed operations based on Nova Scotia Power plans date...

AI summary The document describes modifications made to the louver bypass exit and monitoring shed operations based on Nova Scotia Power plans from 2006. Changes included altering the louver exit to a surface outlet to improve salmon smolt migration and reconstructing the intake canal to increase conveyance capacity.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 278 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Louvers can be very effective at guiding all fish including eels to a bypass if properly designed (Beck 2020) and modeling conducted at the Ald...

AI summary The text discusses the effectiveness of louvers in guiding fish, including eels, to bypass structures, citing studies by Beck (2020) and Allen (2005). It emphasizes the importance of the guiding angle, noting that a 12-degree angle at Ruth Falls is more effective than a 45-degree angle. The inclusion of a bottom barrier (overlay) is highlighted as a factor that can further improve eel guidance efficiency, based on findings from Amaral (2003).

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 287 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) References Allen, 2005, Gregory et al 2005 Engineering and Biological Assessment Ruth Falls Fish Deflection Facility, DRAFT for NSPI Alden Rese...

AI summary The document contains a list of references related to studies and evaluations on fish passage at hydroelectric facilities, focusing on methods to guide and assist American eels and Atlantic salmon in navigating through such structures safely.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 332 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) RUTH FALLS REBUILD: FISH ENTRAINMENT STUDY – FIELD PLAN Field Program November 12, 2022

AI summary This document outlines the field plan for the Ruth Falls Rebuild Fish Entrainment Study conducted on November 12, 2022. It focuses on assessing fish entrainment during the rebuilding process at Ruth Falls.

Fish species data collected within the Sheet Harbour hydroelectric system was provided to Strum by NSPI; this historical data, including bathymetry information for the Ruth Falls headpond as well as fish and fish habitat assessment informa...

AI summary Fish species data from the Sheet Harbour hydroelectric system, provided by NSPI, was used by Strum to establish baseline conditions and assist in developing post-construction fish habitat monitoring assessments. The data includes bathymetry and fish habitat information from a 2018 report.

Offsetting Plan for Nova Scotia Power's Sheet Harbour Dam Refurbishment Projects Prepared on: May 14, 2021 Updated on: February 24, 2023 52 Legends Avenue P.O Box 1590 Truro NS, B2N, 5V3

AI summary This document outlines an offsetting plan related to Nova Scotia Power's Sheet Harbour Dam Refurbishment Projects, prepared on May 14, 2021, and last updated on February 24, 2023. It includes visual elements and contact information for the location of the plan.

Goal As part of a contract under NSPI the DARFM, along with the NSSA, will develop and implement an offsetting project for 5000m 2 on the West River Sheet Harbour watershed. The offset project relates to NSPI dam refurbishment projects at...

AI summary The document outlines a project to develop and implement an offsetting project for 5000m² on the West River Sheet Harbour watershed, as part of a contract under NSPI. The project involves restoring fish habitat and improving fish migration, with active engagement from Millbrook First Nation and other stakeholders. The project spans eight years, with significant work planned for 2024 and monitoring activities in subsequent years.

Data Report 7716: Ruth Falls Watershed, NS Page 22 of 22 # recs CITATION 1 1 McKendry, Karen. 2016. Rare species observations, 2016. Nova Scotia Nature Trust, 19 recs. NatureServe Canada. 2018. iNaturalist Butterfly Data Export . iNaturali...

AI summary The document presents a list of citations related to biodiversity observations and specimen data in the Ruth Falls Watershed, Nova Scotia. It includes records from various researchers, institutions, and personal communications, focusing on rare species and ecological data.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 583 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Fish Passage Studies Study Plan July 2023 Prepared by Nova Scotia Power Inc.

AI summary This document outlines a study plan for the Ruth Falls Fish Passage Studies related to the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, prepared by Nova Scotia Power Inc. in July 2023.

1.0 Introduction The Sheet Harbour Hydro System is located on the East River in Halifax County, with the easternmost extents of the drainage area extending into Guysborough County. The hydro system has a drainage area of 573.9 km2. Present...

AI summary The Sheet Harbour Hydro System includes six reservoirs and several fish passage structures, with a focus on Atlantic salmon and American eels. Nova Scotia Power Inc. conducted studies on fish passage effectiveness, particularly at Ruth Falls, and is working with DFO to improve passage for migratory species.

CI 50518 NSUARB IR-12 Attachment 10 Page 585 of 591 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) • NSP also identified alewife (2143), speckled trout (53), yellow perch (10), white sucker (9) and even a salmon over a period of 46 days. This...

AI summary The text discusses a study conducted by DFO science on the migration of American eels and other fish species through a bypass system. It outlines the tagging process, receiver placements, and monitoring efforts by NSPI to assess the effectiveness of proposed upgrades to the fish ladder and louver system in improving fish passage and reducing intake into the canal.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 5 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) migrating around the dam to complete their lifecycle. The addition of an upstream eel pass will also be installed to support specific upstream p...

AI summary The project involves modifying the Ruth Falls dam to improve fish passage and install a new rubber dam system. Construction will begin in July 2024 and include the installation of upstream and downstream access roads, dewatering, and the construction of a new control building. The project will not alter discharge flows after completion.

12.2.2 Downstream Louvre System Improvements The assessment of downstream passage included looking at the existing infrastructure to evaluate the effectiveness of a louvre system at facilitating downstream passage for species that would be...

AI summary The assessment of downstream passage evaluated the existing louvre system's effectiveness in facilitating fish movement downstream of the dam, and considered the need for upgrades and repairs to ensure the system meets fish passage requirements.

REFERENCE DESCRIPTION A ×, ×, ×, ×, × ×, ×, ×, ×, ×, ×, ×, × SEAL DEPARTMENTAL APPROVALS SCALE Nova Scotia D IV. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL REPAIR DAMAGED UTILITIES TO SATISFACTION OF THE OWNER AND UTILITY OWNER/OPERATOR. III. FLYASH: ALL FLY AS...

AI summary The document outlines contractual obligations related to repairing damaged utilities and specifies requirements for fly ash used in construction, including classification, alkali content limits, and sourcing from a specific location.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 102 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) 2009 /2010 Eel Study Summary Ruth Falls DownstreamLouvre System Figure 1: Current Ruth Falls DownstreamLouvre System

AI summary The text discusses a 2009/2010 Eel Study Summary related to the Ruth Falls DownstreamLouvre System, including figures illustrating the current system. The content appears to be technical and related to environmental or ecological studies, though specific details are redacted.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 111 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 3D Modelling and Fish Passage Assessment FINAL REPORT ver.2 Project 221107.00 • 20th March 2023

AI summary The document is a final report titled 'Ruth Falls Dam Refurbishment 3D Modelling and Fish Passage Assessment,' dated March 20, 2023, and part of Project 221107.00. It includes images and appears to be related to a technical assessment of a dam refurbishment project.

2. Site Visit On May 31, 2022, Thaumas Environmental and Wood Canada Limited (Wood) visited the fish diversion louvers at the entrance to the Ruth Falls power canal in Sheet Harbour, NS. The purpose of the site visit was to determine the c...

AI summary On May 31, 2022, Thaumas Environmental and Wood Canada Limited conducted a site visit to the Ruth Falls power canal in Sheet Harbour, NS, to assess the fish diversion louvers and their impact on American silver eel passage. A second visit was made in October 2022 to evaluate the flow volume and configuration of the louvers, though a planned assessment of louver condition was not completed due to unmet headpond conditions.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 289 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) References Allen, 2005, Gregory et al 2005 Engineering and Biological Assessment Ruth Falls Fish Deflection Facility, DRAFT for NSPI Alden Res...

AI summary The document references multiple studies and reports on fish passage technologies, particularly focusing on methods to guide American eels and Atlantic salmon past hydroelectric facilities. It includes research from various institutions and experts in the field, such as Alden Research Laboratory, Inc., and the Electric Power Research Institute.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 567 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Sheet Harbour Hydro System Ruth Falls Fish Passage Studies Study Plan December 2023 Prepared by Nova Scotia Power Inc.

AI summary This document outlines the Study Plan for the Ruth Falls Fish Passage Studies within the Sheet Harbour Hydro System, prepared by Nova Scotia Power Inc. in December 2023. It focuses on assessing fish passage at the hydro system.

1.0 Introduction The Sheet Harbour Hydro System is located on the East River in Halifax County, with the easternmost extents of the drainage area extending into Guysborough County. The hydro system has a drainage area of 573.9 km2. Present...

AI summary The Sheet Harbour Hydro System includes six reservoirs and several fish passage structures, including fishways and a trap and truck program for Atlantic salmon. NS Power conducted studies in 2009 and 2010 to assess fish passage effectiveness, particularly for salmon smolts and American eels. DFO requested improvements to fish passage at Ruth Falls as part of the relicensing process.

CI 50518 NSUIARB IR-12 Attachment 12 Page 575 of 576 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) transmission every two seconds. For each fish, length, weight, sex and general status will be recorded. Depending on the number of eels captur...

AI summary NS Power will capture eels, record their measurements and sex, and attempt to tag them with a balanced sex ratio. The fish will then be released back into the canal after recovery.

5.1.2 Analysis - All of the alternatives considered by NS Power require the drawdown of the headpond, which is the primary driver of environmental permitting requirements and costs. When asked whether alternatives were - considered which w...

AI summary NS Power evaluated alternatives for the Ruth Falls Generating Station but found that all require headpond drawdown due to environmental and safety concerns. Decommissioning was not considered, as the station is critical for meeting 2030 legislative requirements and has a long remaining operational life.

P R O F I L E Mr. Potyok has over 25 years of commercial and technical experience in project permitting, design, construction and operation of hydroelectric project or dams. He has been a project developer, consultant, Independent Engineer...

AI summary Mr. Potyok has extensive experience in the hydroelectric industry, including project development, engineering, and operations. He has evaluated numerous hydro projects and has served as an expert witness and consultant. His background includes both technical and financial expertise, with experience in Power Purchase Agreements and regulatory compliance.

ance budgets and reserve account in support of credit agreement. Monitoring detailed designs and construction progress in support of both periodic draw certification and authorization of construction. BIG SILVER (2003 to 2017) - A 30 MW ru...

AI summary The text outlines the professional experience of an individual involved in various hydroelectric projects, including roles as Owner's Engineer and Independent Engineer for projects in British Columbia, Sierra Leone, and Zambia. These projects include feasibility studies, design, construction monitoring, and financial analysis.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT - Author and participant in multiple screening, pre-feasibility, and feasibility level project development studies. - Involvement in the hydrological, energy, and financial modeling of projects, both to assess project f...

AI summary The text outlines involvement in various stages of project development for hydroelectric projects, including pre-feasibility and feasibility studies. These studies involved hydrological, energy, and financial modeling for projects in British Columbia, Sierra Leone, and Saskatchewan.

DUE DILIGENCE - Experience with the due diligence analysis of a variety of renewable resource projects, including the evaluation and modeling of the revenues and costs associated with mid-life energy projects. - Evaluation of site visit ma...

AI summary The text outlines experience in due diligence for renewable energy projects, including hydroelectric evaluations and energy modeling for various clients across Canada and internationally, highlighting technical, economic, and contractual assessments.

PROVINCIAL RESOURCE PLANNING & REGULATORY FILINGS - Technical and economic modeling and reporting for Yukon Development Corp.'s Next Generation Hydro and Transmission Viability Study. - Northwest Territories Long Term Power System Plan. -...

AI summary The text outlines various resource planning and regulatory filings, including studies on hydroelectric projects, long-term power system plans, and electricity market analyses conducted by different entities across Canada.

E M P L O Y M E N T H I S T O R Y MIDGARD CONSULTING INC. 2011 - Present Consultant, Vancouver BC - Integral part of a small consulting firm with exposure to many aspects of the electricity industry. - Provide consulting services to electr...

AI summary The employment history of Midgard Consulting Inc. highlights their role as a consulting firm providing services to electric utilities, governments, and developers, focusing on transmission and generation design, resource planning, and project management since 2011.

I N D U S T R Y E X P E R I E N C E MIDGARD CONSULTING INC. 2021 - Present Consultant, Vancouver BC - Conducted comprehensive analyses of solar photovoltaic systems using PSS/E, assessing integration, performance, and grid impact, includin...

AI summary Midgard Consulting Inc. has been conducting analyses of solar photovoltaic systems, feasibility studies, and project management for renewable energy projects. They have also performed audits of Feed-in Tariff contracts and contributed to regulatory filings and technical reports.

Table 6: Comparison of Recent Project Archaeological Costs Application Date Filed Archaeological Cost Gaspereau Dam Safety Remedial Works (Original) May 3, 2007 $150,00040 Wright's Dam Refurbishment 2015 $11,500 Tusket Falls Main Dam Refur...

AI summary Table 6 compares archaeological costs for various dam projects in Nova Scotia, including original applications and those under the 2019 ACE Plan. The table highlights varying costs over time, with some projects showing significant increases, such as the Tusket Falls Main Dam Refurbishment (ATO) which increased by $937,769.

6.1.2 Analysis - All of the alternatives considered by NS Power require the drawdown of the headpond, which is the primary driver of environmental permitting requirements and costs. When asked whether alternatives were considered which wou...

AI summary NS Power evaluated alternatives for the Ruth Falls Generating Station, but all require headpond drawdown, which has environmental and cost implications. They considered but ruled out using a cofferdam or bulkhead due to feasibility and safety concerns. NS Power also did not consider decommissioning the station, citing its role in meeting 2030 legislative targets and the long-term viability of the asset.

P R O F I L E Mr. Potyok has over 25 years of commercial and technical experience in project permitting, design, construction and operation of hydroelectric project or dams. He has been a project developer, consultant, Independent Engineer...

AI summary Mr. Potyok has over 25 years of experience in the hydroelectric industry, including project development, consulting, and operations. He has worked on numerous hydroelectric projects and has served as an expert witness in arbitration tribunals. His background includes both technical and financial expertise, and he has owned and operated a hydroelectric project in British Columbia.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT - Author and participant in multiple screening, pre-feasibility, and feasibility level project development studies. - Involvement in the hydrological, energy, and financial modeling of projects, both to assess project f...

AI summary The text outlines involvement in various stages of project development for hydroelectric projects, including pre-feasibility and feasibility studies. It details work on the Anudol Creek, Betmai Falls, and Grease Rapids projects, focusing on hydrological, energy, and financial modeling.

DUE DILIGENCE - Experience with the due diligence analysis of a variety of renewable resource projects, including the evaluation and modeling of the revenues and costs associated with mid-life energy projects. - Evaluation of site visit ma...

AI summary The text outlines experience in due diligence for renewable energy projects, including hydroelectric and other mid-life energy projects. It highlights participation in evaluations for clients in Canada, Zambia, and the USA, focusing on technical, economic, and contractual aspects.

PROVINCIAL RESOURCE PLANNING & REGULATORY FILINGS - Technical and economic modeling and reporting for Yukon Development Corp.'s Next Generation Hydro and Transmission Viability Study. - Northwest Territories Long Term Power System Plan. -...

AI summary The text outlines various technical and economic modeling efforts and reports related to power system planning, including hydroelectric studies, long-term power plans, and analyses of generation technologies across multiple jurisdictions.

OPERATIONS - 3 years of operating experience for a 10 MW run-of-river hydroelectric plant in southwest BC. - Daily check-ins and monitoring through HMI interface and monthly site inspections. - On-call for managing plant trips and getting...

AI summary The text outlines operational experience with a 10 MW run-of-river hydroelectric plant in southwest BC, including monitoring, maintenance, and outage management activities.

I N D U S T R Y E X P E R I E N C E MIDGARD CONSULTING INC. 2021 - Present Consultant, Vancouver BC - Conducted comprehensive analyses of solar photovoltaic systems using PSS/E, assessing integration, performance, and grid impact, includin...

AI summary Midgard Consulting Inc. has been conducting analyses of solar photovoltaic systems, feasibility studies, and project management for renewable energy projects. They have also been involved in regulatory filings, audits of Feed-in Tariff contracts, and providing technical reports for consulting services.

CI 50518 – HYD – Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment ATO – Reply Evidence Redacted - 1 with a broad range of accuracy ranging from -50 to +100 percent. Please refer to Appendix A for - 2 a detailed breakdown of the contingency and management...

AI summary The reply evidence argues that refurbishing the Ruth Falls Main Dam is the most economical option for NS Power, emphasizing that decommissioning would lead to higher costs for customers due to the need to replace lost renewable energy generation.

Description of Proposed Project The proposed project of which the work, undertaking or activity authorized is a part of involves: The refurbishment of the existing Ruth Falls Dam, the lowermost dam in the Ruth Falls Hydro System, near Shee...

AI summary The proposed project involves refurbishing the Ruth Falls Dam to meet dam safety guidelines, including replacing stoplog bays with vertical lift gates and rubber dams, constructing a free overflow spillway, and modifying fish passage systems. The project includes lowering the headpond and directing drawdown flow through normal flowage channels.

3.4 Decommissioning Cost [74] When the Ruth Falls project was included in the 2019 ACE Plan, NS Power had two choices to address safety concerns arising from the related dam safety review: either decommission the dam or refurbish it. At th...

AI summary The Ruth Falls project involved a decision between decommissioning the dam or refurbishing it. NS Power chose refurbishment due to lower costs and the need to replace 7.2 MW of renewable power. The refurbishment will extend the dam's life by 50 years but will require future capital investments and ongoing operating expenses. The document also considers the potential cost-effectiveness of decommissioning and replacing the power source.

31 1 Request IR-6: 24 corewalls and wingwalls to meet Canadian Dam Association freeboard 25 requirements. 26 (a) Please confirm whether the responses given by NSPI still apply? If not, 27 what has changed? 28 (b) If there are any correctio...

AI summary The text presents several information requests related to the Ruth Falls and Malay Falls hydro generating stations, including queries about the remaining useful life, generation capacity, and the ability of Malay Falls to produce energy if Ruth Falls were decommissioned. It also includes requests regarding archaeological and Mi'kmaq engagement costs and whether NSPI was aware of potential archaeological impacts prior to the original application.

ne 2024, NSPI's Reply evidence indicates it only submitted the package to the DFO on February 28, 2025. 13 It is unclear why there was an eight month delay in responding to DFO's directions. Given the growing concerns, and age of the hydro...

AI summary The document states that NSPI has not provided sufficient evidence to justify the Ruth Falls refurbishment project, which has seen significant cost increases and is only 10% complete six years after approval. Concerns are raised about the economic justification and the need for more data.

May 20, 2025 Ms. Crystal Henwood Regulatory Affairs Officer/Clerk Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3rd Floor P.O. Box 1692, Unit "M" Halifax, NS B3J 3S3 Re: M11927 Nova Scotia Power Inc. - CI 50518 – HYD Ruth F...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NS Power) has corrected a clerical error in its response to an Information Request (IR) regarding the Ruth Falls Main Dam Refurbishment. The correction clarifies that NS Power has not considered selling or decommissioning the Ruth Falls Generating Station, which is part of the path to achieve 2030 legislated requirements. The response refers to IG IR-10 part (c) and NSUARB IR-13 part (b).

ro capital refurbishment projects that included an extended drawdown. [36] In response to Midgard's evidence related to further potential cost increases for the project, NS Power noted the following: - The revised habitat offsetting plan a...

AI summary NS Power responded to Midgard's concerns about potential cost increases for the project, noting alignment with DFO guidance, engagement with Mi'kmaq communities, and the submission of an archaeological plan. NS Power also addressed decommissioning considerations, referencing a 2018 Hydro Asset Study detailing decommissioning costs.

3.4 Decommissioning Cost [74] When the Ruth Falls project was included in the 2019 ACE Plan, NS Power had two choices to address safety concerns arising from the related dam safety review: either decommission the dam or refurbish it. At th...

AI summary The Ruth Falls project's decommissioning cost was not chosen in 2019 due to higher costs compared to refurbishment. The refurbishment extends the dam's life by 50 years and maintains 7.2 MW of renewable power. However, ongoing capital investments and operating expenses are required. The document suggests that if decommissioning and procuring alternative power proved more cost-effective, it would have been in ratepayers' best interest.