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, located southwest of Montreal, with removing their watercraft for the season. This decision follows a notably dry summer and fall that have led to the drying up of numerous marinas along the St. Lawrence River, such as the Marina de la Rive-Nord in Repentigny, Quebec, where boats and docks typically float.
Due to the low water levels, approximately two meters lower than usual, sections of the riverbed are now exposed, with mud drying and cracking in various areas. Yvon Vannini, the marina’s owner, mentioned that the water levels have not been this low since 1989, pointing out several boats resting on the riverbed, making boat movement challenging without causing damage.
Concerns have been raised by many individuals, especially with winter approaching rapidly and potential difficulties in moving boats once the water freezes. Vannini noted that the situation at his marina is comparatively better than at other locations.
To address the current situation, the International Lake Ontario–St. Lawrence River Board, responsible for managing Lake Ontario’s outflow, plans to increase the flow by up to 500 cubic meters per second starting Friday morning until Saturday evening. This move aims to raise water levels on Lac Saint-Louis by approximately 15 centimeters, facilitating boat haul-outs, as stated in a news release by the board.
Jérôme Marty, the head of the International Association for Great Lakes Research, mentioned that this action may be the last opportunity to undertake such activities due to the lack of recent rainfall. He emphasized the importance of taking action now before potential weather changes later in the season.
The temporary flow increase has been authorized under the board’s minor deviation authority, allowing short-term adjustments at the Moses-Saunders Dam without significant adverse effects on other interests. While Lake Ontario levels are not expected to be significantly impacted, water levels on Lake St. Lawrence, a widened section of the river near the dam, will decrease by about 20 to 30 centimeters during the operation.
The Canadian Drought Monitor reports moderate to severe drought conditions around Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. The board intends to monitor forecasts closely and refine the deviation plan in the upcoming weeks. Despite these efforts, Vannini remains skeptical about the potential outcome and plans to assess the effects on October 18 at his marina.