New York no longer considers hydropower to be a source of clean, renewable energy. Numerous negative ecological effects of dams, reservoirs, and water diversion projects have been documented in recent years, challenging the popular belief that hydropower is sustainable and cost-effective. New York’s decision puts pressure on power company Hydro-Quebec to move toward alternative sources, like wind power. Such a shift would be good news for the many Cree and Quebec citizens who have been fighting Hydro-Quebec projects in Eeyou Istchee/James Bay that have negative impacts on ecosystems, as well as the traditional Cree culture and economy that rely on healthy fish and waterfowl populations.
