Fortum begins preliminary study for fish migration bypass at Seitenoikea hydropower plant

Fortum Oyj has initiated a preliminary study for the construction of a fish migration bypass at the Seitenoikea hydropower plant, located on the Hyrynsalmi route of the Emäjoki River in the municipality of Ristijärvi. If implemented, the bypass will allow lake trout to migrate to potential spawning areas covering approximately 40 hectares.

The study will examine various implementation alternatives, assessing their technical feasibility, environmental impacts, and costs. Both engineered and natural fishway constructions, as well as existing fish passage technologies, are being considered. Fortum is collaborating with Ramboll Finland Oy and engaging with stakeholders and local residents throughout this phase.

The project includes public information meetings and a monitoring group composed of representatives from local fisheries and water authorities, Emäjoki and Oulujärvi fisheries areas, the Kainuu fisheries centre, the Natural Resources Institute, Metsähallitus, the municipalities of Ristijärvi and Hyrynsalmi, and Montan Lohi Oy.

The preliminary study for the Seitenoikea bypass solution is expected to conclude by the end of February 2024. Following the study's results, a specific solution will be selected, and a more detailed planning phase will commence.

This initiative is part of a broader set of measures to strengthen the natural reproduction of the endangered lake trout in Lake Oulujärvi, specifically focusing on the Hyrynsalmi route, which contains key sites identified in the national strategy for fish passages in the Oulujoki river system.