Ontario Power Generation

St. Lawrence Power Development
Visitor Centre

Welcome!

Ontario Power Generation's St. Lawrence Power Development Visitor Centre is located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, east of the Robert H. Saunders Generating Station, in the west end of Cornwall, Ontario.

This LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, which opened in the summer of 2010, is the new home of OPG's many stories. The Centre recounts the fascinating history of the St. Lawrence Seaway and Power Project and addresses its impact on specific communities such as the Mohawks of Akwesasne and the Lost Villages. There is a variety of video presentations available, and displays on hydroelectric, thermal and nuclear generation, safety around power facilities, the American eel migration ladder, and the St. Lawrence Seaway. As well, a community room is available for use by local organizations.

As a commitment to sustainable development, the Visitor Centre has three designated parking spaces available to those who carpool. This will help reduce the environmental impact of cars and encourage the use of public transport or bicycles.

Visitor Centre Hours of Operation:
May 7 - Oct. 5, 2012
Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Upcoming Events for 2012

• Saturday, May 5 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Wildflowers
  As the leaves come out on the trees, many beautiful flowers will take advantage of the spring sunshine. Discover local spring beauties and learn about their interesting history and traditional uses. This program will take place outdoors (weather permitting). Photographers are welcome!

• Saturday, June 2 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Animal Behaviour
  In this workshop, participants will learn how animals behave and interact in their environment. Come and learn how animals are like people in this fun and educational program for the whole family.

• Saturday, July 7 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Eel Day
  Details coming soon.

• Thursday, July 12 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Invertebrates
  Join the River Institute for a family program on invertebrates. Participants will learn about the various groups of invertebrates and their importance in the food web.

• Thursday, July 26 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Wildflowers
  Learn about local flora and about their natural history, ecology and traditional uses. Part of the program will be delivered outdoors if weather permits, with a walk around the centre to look at flowers and trees.

• Thursday, Aug. 9 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Birds
  Join the River Institute for a program all about summer birds! Participants will learn about their interesting behaviour and biology, and get tips for identifying local birds. This program will take place at the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

• Saturday, Aug. 11 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Butterflies
  With their beautiful wings and bright colours, butterflies are a wonderful group of insects to observe. Participants will learn all about these amazing creatures, and get tips on how to attract butterflies in their garden.

• Thursday, Aug. 23 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Bats
  Come explore the role bats play in natural ecosystems and discuss some threats facing bat populations around the world. Participants will learn interesting characteristics and behaviours of bats.

• Saturday, Sept. 8 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Invasive Species
  Come and learn about invasive species in an interactive presentation. Participants will find out how species like purple loosestrife, zebra mussel and the round goby arrived here, how they are able to survive and what actions we can take to control them.

• Saturday, Oct. 13 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Fish
  In this presentation, participants will get helpful tips on identifying some of the common fish found in the Cornwall area, and learn about their biology and role in the river system. Fish specimens will be on site for participants to explore.

• Saturday, Nov. 3 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Insects
  Join the River Institute for a family program on insects. Participants will get a chance to learn how to catch and release insects, and try it out with nets provided for the group.

• Saturday, Dec. 1 (12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.): Species at Risk
  There are many fascinating animals which are rare to see or at risk of disappearing in and around the waters of the St. Lawrence River. Come and learn about species like the map turtle and the cutlips minnow.

St. Lawrence Power Development
Visitor Centre
2500B Second Street West
Cornwall, ON
K6H 5R6

GPS Coordinates:
45’ 30.2” N
74.47’ 1.4” W

Tel: 613-932-4563 Ext. 3520
Fax: 613-932-8317

E-mail:
powervisitorcentre@opg.com

Directions:
English Map
French Map

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View a slideshow of what the centre has to offer.

• DOWNLOAD (.WMV)

What's being called the "Jewel of the St. Lawrence" officially opens.

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