On October 18, an exceptional event will significantly raise the Saint Lawrence River levels
The Saint Lawrence River is facing unprecedented low water levels, severely affecting navigation and the boating community. Starting October 18, an extraordinary event will temporarily boost river levels. The International Joint Commission (IJC) will open the gates of Lake Ontario for 36 hours to alleviate these challenges.
Significance of the October 18 Event
This operation will release 500 cubic meters of water into the river every second. This volume is equivalent to an Olympic-sized swimming pool being emptied every two seconds. Although this will lead to a minimal drop of less than one-third of a centimeter in Lake Ontario, it will provide crucial assistance to thousands of boats currently stranded in the mud along the river.
The Role of Lake Ontario
The Saint Lawrence River is a critical outlet for water from the Great Lakes, comprising 18% of the world’s surface freshwater. Lake Ontario feeds most of the river’s flow, which is managed primarily through the Moses-Saunders Dam in Cornwall, built in 1958.
- Location: Cornwall, Ontario
- Construction Year: 1958
- Impact: Supplies two hydroelectric plants and regulates river levels
The IJC’s decision to manage these water levels is vital for maintaining safe navigation. When levels fall below the “chart zero” reference point, safety for large vessels is compromised, especially along key sections of the waterway.
Current Challenges for the Boating Community
During the next four weeks, the Canadian Coast Guard predicts levels will remain below the reference point, impacting Montreal, Trois-Rivières, and Sorel. This situation has led the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation to tighten speed restrictions and reduce permissible draft limits.
Many boats have already been forced to unload cargo to avoid running aground. Émile Sauvé, operator of the Ô Quai des Brasseurs marina in Bécancour, expressed relief at the decision to release more water. “We hope to get all of our boats out in time before winter sets in,” he noted.
Historical Context
Historically, the river has experienced low water levels during notable years, including 2001, 2003, and 2012. These fluctuations have raised concerns about the potential impacts of climate change on water availability in the Great Lakes region.
Economic Consequences
Low water levels can lead to significant economic losses. Estimates indicate that reduced vessel capacity could cost the region between $38 million and $70 million annually. Additionally, hydroelectric plants, like Beauharnois, may face losses between $52 million and $89 million due to decreased river flow.
- Potential Economic Losses:
- Shipping and navigation: $38 million to $70 million/year
- Hydroelectric plants: $52 million to $89 million/year
- Marinas and boating sector: $64 million to $77 million/year
In conclusion, the October 18 event is a necessary intervention to raise the Saint Lawrence River levels. As the boating community braces for the winter, the outcome of this initiative may prove critical for both maritime safety and the local economy.
