Robert-Bourassa Reservoir
Lake Large Quebec reservoir created for hydroelectric power generation
The Robert‑Bourassa Reservoir forms part of Quebec’s La Grande hydroelectric complex in the James Bay region; its remote shoreline draws anglers, canoeists and those studying hydroelectric infrastructure and northern landscapes.
The Robert-Bourassa Reservoir is a large man-made reservoir in northern Quebec, created as part of the James Bay hydroelectric project and associated with the Robert-Bourassa generating complex.
The reservoir is characterized by extensive shorelines, islands and boreal landscape typical of northern Quebec’s hydroelectric reservoirs; it is primarily an industrial and wilderness landscape rather than a developed recreational area. The surrounding region is remote with sparse road access and is used for hydroelectric operations and northern resource activities.
The reservoir was formed during the construction of the Robert-Bourassa hydroelectric project as part of the larger James Bay development in the latter half of the 20th century, which involved damming and diversion on the La Grande River system to supply hydroelectric generating stations.
Situated in the Nord-du-Québec region of northern Quebec, the reservoir lies within the James Bay watershed in a remote boreal and subarctic landscape.
- Hydroelectric role: Created as part of the James Bay hydroelectric development, it is one of several large reservoirs in northern Quebec used to store water for hydroelectric generating stations.
Tips for Visiting Robert-Bourassa Reservoir #
- The Robert‑Bourassa Reservoir is part of Hydro‑Québec's James Bay complex and lies in a remote northern area - approach logistics from the town of Radisson or via chartered flights, as services are sparse.
- Treat visits as expedition-style: expect long drives or air transfers, limited facilities, and rapid weather changes; plan your route and accommodations well in advance rather than relying on services near the reservoir.
Best Time to Visit Robert-Bourassa Reservoir #
Summer is the most practical time for visits when the reservoir and surrounding roads are ice-free; winter brings extreme cold and ice.
Weather & Climate near Robert-Bourassa Reservoir #
Robert-Bourassa Reservoir's climate is classified as Subarctic (Dry Summer) - Subarctic (Dry Summer) climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -26°C to 18°C. Moderate rainfall (694 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -17°C and lows of -26°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -16°C and lows of -25°C. The driest month with just 25 mm.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -19°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -10°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (107 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -18°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm).
