[1] Since the 1980s, when hydroelectric development diverted the Eastmain and Caniapiscau rivers into the La Grande, its total catchment area has increased to about 175,000 km2 (68,000 sq mi), with its mean discharge being more than 3,400 m3/s (120,000 cu ft/s).

In the early 20th century, this trading post became a village as the Crees of the James Bay region abandoned their nomadic way of life and settled nearby.

The modern Cree village of Chisasibi, which replaced Fort George in 1980, is situated on the southern shore of the La Grande River, several kilometers to the East.

The following generating stations are on the La Grande River and its tributaries in upstream order: As a result of the development projects, the Cree people of the region lost some parts of their traditional hunting and trapping territories (about 10%[citation needed] of the hunting and trapping territories used by the Cree of Chisasibi).

The authorities continue to promote the regular consumption of fish, with the notable exception of the predatory species living in the reservoirs, which still show high levels of mercury.