GLIN==> Opening of the 2005 Navigation Season and Maximum Allowable Drafts

["List Manager" <adminpst@great-lakes.net>]

Submitted by <http://www.greatlakes-seaway.com/>

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The opening of the 2005 navigation season is scheduled to take place on the 
following dates and times:

 a.. Montreal / Lake Ontario March 25, 2005 - 0800 hours (E.S.T.)
 b.. Welland Canal March 23, 2005 - 0800 hours (E.S.T.)
Vessel transits will be subject to weather and ice conditions. Restrictions 
may apply in some areas until lighted navigation aids have been installed.

Sault Ste. Marie Locks and Canals

United States Soo Locks will open March 25.

Allowable Draft


In the Montreal / Lake Ontario Section, the draft will be 80.0 dm (26'3") 
until the South Shore Canal is ice-free or April 15th, whichever occurs 
first, at which time, if water levels are favourable, the draft will be 
increased to 80.8 dm (26'6") for all inland vessels and those ocean vessels 
equipped with bow thrusters. For all ocean vessels not equipped with bow 
thrusters the maximum allowable draft will remain 80.0 dm (26'3"). In 
addition, there will be zero tolerance for ship's draft in excess of 80.8 dm 
(26' 06").

Mariners are reminded that for ships loaded to a draft greater than 80.0 dm 
(26' 03"), speeds will be monitored carefully between St. Lambert Lock and 
St. Nicolas Island.

In the Welland Canal, a maximum allowable draft of 80.8 dm (26'6") will be 
in effect from the start of the navigation season for all inland vessels and 
those ocean vessels equipped with bow thrusters. For all ocean vessels not 
equipped with bow thrusters the maximum allowable draft will be 80.0 dm 
(26'3"). In addition, there will be zero tolerance for vessel drafts in 
excess of 80.8 dm (26' 6'').

Please note that, for vessels loaded to a draft greater than 80.0 dm, speeds 
will be monitored carefully between the upper entrance to Lock 7 and former 
Bridge 12 in order to reduce bank erosion in this area.


February 22, 2005

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