Notice of Public Interest/Low Water Levels in the St. Lawrence: Recreational Boaters and Mariners Are Urged to Use Caution

MONT-JOLI, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - June 29, 2012) - Fisheries and Oceans Canada has issued a public advisory warning that water levels are lower than average in the Port of Montréal and in the Deux Montagnes lake. For the sector between Montréal and Varennes, water levels are below chart datum.

Water levels below chart datum affect both recreational boaters and mariners, and can pose hazards to the safety of people and the environment. In order to find the notices in effect for your navigation sector, check Notices to Shipping which are broadcast by radio and posted on www.marinfo.gc.ca

Fisheries and Oceans Canada recommends the following steps for safe navigation.

1. Obtain information on water levels by dialling the toll-free number 1-877-775-0790 or from the Internet at: www.tides.gc.ca.

2. Keep up-to-date charts onboard the vessel and consult them.

3. Update your charts from the information provided in the Notices to Shipping and notices to mariners available at: www.marinfo.gc.ca.

4. Check water levels in the area where you are navigating to make daily corrections to the depths indicated on the charts. The water level value must be added to or subtracted from (when it is negative) the depth indicated on the chart.

5. Take into account that low water levels affect the position of buoys. In such conditions, buoys may not be sufficient for accurate identification of a navigation zone or a channel that is safe for certain vessels.

6. Do not venture into unfamiliar areas without obtaining information about obstacles and obstructions.

7. Reduce your vessel's speed where the current permits.

8. Know the draft of your vessel.

For broadcast : Fisheries and Oceans Canada would like to advise the public that water levels are lower than average in the Port of Montréal and in the Deux Montagnes lake. Furthermore, for the sector between Montréal and Varennes, water levels are below chart datum.

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