The International Lake Ontario–St. Lawrence River Board has announced a temporary increase in outflows from Lake Ontario to aid recreational boaters on Lac Saint-Louis, southwest of Montreal, in removing their watercraft for the season. This decision follows a dry summer and fall, which has led to many marinas along the St. Lawrence River, including Marina de la Rive-Nord in Repentigny, Que., experiencing low water levels. The exposed riverbed and significantly decreased water levels, nearly two meters below normal, have posed challenges for boat handling, as noted by marina owner Yvon Vannini.
Vannini recalled the last time water levels were this low back in 1989, pointing out boats resting on the riverbed, making boat movement without damage difficult. Concerns are rising among boaters as winter approaches, with worries about boat mobility in icy conditions.
To address the situation, the International Lake Ontario–St. Lawrence River Board plans to increase the outflow by up to 500 cubic meters per second starting Friday morning until Saturday evening. This action is anticipated to raise water levels on Lac Saint-Louis by approximately 15 centimeters, facilitating boat haul-outs. Jérôme Marty, head of the International Association for Great Lakes Research, emphasized the importance of the operation due to the lack of recent rainfall.
The temporary flow adjustment is permitted under the board’s minor deviation authority at the Moses-Saunders Dam, situated between Massena, N.Y., and Cornwall, Ont., with minimal adverse effects on other interests. While the increase is not expected to significantly impact Lake Ontario levels, Lake St. Lawrence’s water levels will decrease by 20 to 30 centimeters during the operation.
Areas surrounding Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River are facing moderate to severe drought conditions, according to the Canadian Drought Monitor. The board will continue to assess forecasts and adjust the deviation plan accordingly. Vannini remains cautious about the operation’s effectiveness, expressing skepticism about its potential impact.