Renowned environmental activist and author Maude Barlow wants to help Almonte stop the building of a hydro complex. On June 28 close to 300 people gathered in Almonte to discuss the proposed expansion of a hydroelectric dam on the Mississippi River. Protest organizers say they are concerned the dam will harm tourism and damage the ecosystem. The chair of the Council of Canadians has publicly declared her opposition and is urging residents to sign an online petition against the Almonte dam. Barlow was in Kemptville earlier this year to speak against the proposed TransCanada pipeline.