Dear Members,
We wish to provide an update on the current ice conditions and challenges affecting navigation in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway system, particularly in the Maisonneuve Region.
As per the last Seaway closing call, recent weather patterns have caused rapid ice formation and low water levels, creating operational challenges and delays. These conditions are more severe than usual for this time of year and require careful and adaptive management to maintain safe navigation.
The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) has mobilized multiple assets to address these challenges:
- CCGS Vincent Massey and Ocean K Rusby are currently operating near Côte Ste-Catherine and have assisted in freeing the Algoma Discovery, which is now progressing upbound at approximately 3 knots.
- CCGS Judy Lamarsh is en route from Prescott to provide additional icebreaking support. Once conditions allow, the Massey will return to complete buoy and navigational aid operations upstream.
- Additional tug support from Groupe Océan has been activated under the standing offer to reinforce icebreaking efforts.
These measures are prioritized to maintain vessel traffic flow, even if some other tasks, such as aids-to-navigation work, are temporarily deferred.
We continue to actively participate in all Seaway closing calls and to closely monitor the situation. We are in regular contact with Coast Guard and traffic center representatives to ensure timely updates are communicated to members and to advocate for operational support where required. We appreciate the ongoing collaboration between Seaway traffic controllers, pilots, vessel operators, tugs, and icebreaking crews in managing these challenging conditions. Members are encouraged to remain vigilant, to plan for potential delays, and to maintain communication with traffic control centers.
For further updates or operational concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned or your local Seaway traffic center.
Sincerely,
Director Marine Operations