The International Lake Ontario–St. Lawrence River Board has announced a temporary increase in outflows from Lake Ontario to assist recreational boaters on Lac Saint-Louis, southwest of Montreal, in removing their watercraft for the season. This decision follows a dry summer and fall that have left many marinas along the St. Lawrence River, like Marina de la Rive-Nord in Repentigny, Que., with exposed riverbeds instead of floating boats and docks.
Yvon Vannini, the marina’s owner, highlighted that water levels are nearly two meters lower than usual, making it challenging to move boats without causing damage. This low water level situation has not been seen since 1989, according to Vannini. With winter approaching, concerns are rising as colder temperatures may freeze the river, hindering boat movement.
The International Lake Ontario–St. Lawrence River Board plans to increase outflow by up to 500 cubic meters per second from Friday morning to Saturday evening. This action is expected 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 urgency of the situation due to the lack of rainfall.
The board emphasized that the temporary flow adjustment is authorized under its minor deviation authority and is not anticipated to significantly impact Lake Ontario levels. However, water levels on Lake St. Lawrence will drop by about 20 to 30 centimeters during the operation. The board will closely monitor forecasts and adjust the plan accordingly in the coming weeks.
The Canadian Drought Monitor indicates moderate to severe drought conditions around Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Despite the efforts, Vannini remains skeptical about the potential impact of the operation and plans to assess the situation on October 18 at his marina.