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201516 There are about 2600 dams in Ontario which explains why dams are such a familiar sight along our waterways in cottage country. Some of these structures are being used to generate electricity. Hydroelectric generation uses the power of falling or downward flowing water to make electricity. It is the most widely used form of renewable energy in Canada and makes a significant contribution to Ontarios energy supply mix. The use of hydroelectricity in Ontario dates back to the late 19th century. Its advantages include reliability relatively low production costs and flexibility to meet ongoing electricity needs as well as peak demands. It also makes good use of a renewable resource water. Today hydroelectric power accounts for approximately a quarter of Ontarios total installed energy capacity. The Dam Truth Hydroelectricity in Cottage Country around dams are a source of potential safety concern. Due to the dams very purpose downstream water levels and flows can change dramatically often with little warning. Always follow these safety tips when enjoying recreational activities anywhere close to dams Obey all warning signs fences buoys booms and barriers. They are there to protect you and your family. The areas inside are dangerous so stay clear of them. Stay off dams or station structures unless there are clearly indicated public walkways or observation points. Stay well back from the waters edge above and below dams and reservoirs. Never stand below a dam or anchor or tie your boat there. Particularly stay well back of dry riverbeds below dams. They can quickly change into rapidly flowing waterways. Even where a dam is out of sight along a river be aware of water levels at all times. Check upstream frequently when swimming fishing boating or paddling watching for any sign of increasing currents. Changing flows can take you by surprise pulling you into an undertow leaving you stranded away from shore or swamping your boat. Also be sure to set an example for children who may not be aware of the dangers even if they can read. State clearly where they can and cannot go and make sure you are close to them and can see them at all times. Whos in charge of dams Dams are owned and operated by various agencies and private companies including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry MNRF conservation authorities Ontario Power Generation the federal government and municipalities. MNRF is responsible for safety legislation regarding dams under the Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act which regulates new dam construction repairs reconstruction or decommissioning. The former Ontario PowerAuthority has merged with the Independent Electricity System Operator to provide services information and analysis to support Ontarios electricity system and connect its stakeholders which include FOCAs members across cottage country. Ontario Power Generation OPG generates and sells electricity as an entity wholly owned by the Province of Ontario. Many of the dams along FOCA members Installed Energy Capacity in Ontario at March 2015 source Independent Electricity System Operator ieso.ca How it works Generating stations use the natural run of a river or a dam to temporarily raise the water level to create the drop needed to produce electricity. The water is diverted into a tube penstock where it picks up speed and spins a turbine that is connected to a power generator. The generator converts the spinning movement into electricity which can be transferred through a transformer and then into the electricity grid. For an online interactive tool that explains this process visit httppowerauthority.on.casitesdefaultfileswa1.swf. Public Safety and Dams Dams are remote pieces of infrastructure often adjacent to or accessible from recreational waterways. Public activities