TCE Drilling Barge (Photo provided by Sara Beasley)
Save Georgian Bay is holding a protest on the water this weekend in response to TC Energy installing a drilling rig.
One of the directors of the citizen group opposed to the proposed pumped storage project Tom Buck says the Anchors Away to Save Georgian Bay protest will be held on Saturday (Aug. 23) at 11 a.m.
He anticipates a few dozen boats will be taking part in the flotilla at Cedar Avenue and Harbour Beach Drive.
“We are going to anchor a little bit off shore and very near the range waters and the drilling rig will be in the background and it is just to share our concerns about water quality impacts from not just the drilling rig, but the project in general,” says Buck.
TC Energy begun its offshore drilling program in Georgian Bay as part of the proposed pumped storage project with the installation of a drilling rig east of the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre at the end of July.
Save Georgian Bay’s concern with the project is how the drilling will disturb the lake bed and its potential impact on those who live off the water.
“We are just continuing to draw attention to how poor a project this is. It costs too much, it is a poor design that has to draw water out of Georgian Bay, and it interferes with the military,” says Buck.
Buck adds he has not spoken with TC Energy about the protest.
“I have corresponded with TC Energy and I have corresponded with the Department of Defence about the protest,” says Buck. “The base appreciated the notification that we were going to be doing something out on the water near their line of demarcation and I have not hear back from TCE.”
Pumped Storage Project Communications Lead Sara Beasley says in a statement, “The offshore geotechnical program we are completing this summer is one of many important studies we are undertaking to ensure the Ontario Pumped Storage Project is designed and delivered to the highest environmental and technical standards. We are aware of an event scheduled in the community and we acknowledge there are many perspectives, and we respect the right to peaceful and safe expression of opinions. Our priority remains engaging with the community, listening to feedback, and working collaboratively toward constructive solutions. We follow all engagement and consultation processes and seek to meet or exceed requirements while prioritizing respectful engagement and building partnerships. The offshore geotechnical program stems from feedback from Saugeen Ojibway Nation and Meaford residents to move the project facilities into deeper water to avoid near shore impacts. The work underway this summer will inform the design’s safety and feasibility. Environmental protection is paramount. Protecting Georgian Bay is a priority for us – multiple layers of design, procedures and oversight have been implemented to demonstrate protection of Georgian Bay during the testing.”