Planned discharge of wastewater into the Richelieu River

01/27/2023

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) has been informed by the Ministère de l’Environment, de la Lutte contre le changement climatiques, de la Faune & des Parcs (MELCCFP) of wastewater overflow event planned by the City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu into the Richelieu River from January 30 until April 3, 2023.

The reason for the overflow is due to major repairs to the Champlain pumping station. While the MCK understands the need to conduct the repairs, it is objecting to the MELCCFP’s authorization of the overflow event due to their failure to properly assess and compensate for environmental impacts. The MCK will continue to address these issues, as the protection of the environment is at the forefront of our ideals as Indigenous peoples.   

In the meantime, the MCK is advising community members to avoid activities (especially fishing) on or near the Richelieu River while the overflow takes place.