Situated at the confluence of the Madawaska and Saint John rivers, beneath the Boucher Bridge in the City of Edmundston, the Madawaska Dam and Hydroelectric Generating Station hold the distinction of being a Local Historic Place. This designation recognizes their nearly uninterrupted century-long operation and their significant impact on Edmundston’s economy.

Regarded as historic landmarks in Edmundston, the dam and hydroelectric generating station are the second oldest in the region, following those in Grand Falls. They have consistently provided energy for almost a hundred years. Constructed in 1917 by Fraser Ltd., the run-of-the-river plant was built to supply power to the company’s pulp mill. The facilities now form part of the City of Edmundston’s energy production infrastructure, making it the only city in New Brunswick to generate a portion of its own electricity.

Additionally, the station’s role in the local economy of Edmundston is noteworthy. In the early years of operation, the facilities enabled the Fraser Mill to function efficiently, thereby securing jobs for numerous employees from Edmundston. Furthermore, they facilitated the smooth operation of the municipality through agreements with Fraser Ltd., which supplied Edmundston with the energy it needed.

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