St. Andrews Lock and Dam set to close Oct. 14

The St. Andrews Lock and Dam will close to marine traffic for the season next month, with officials warning boat and property owners to prepare for fluctuating water levels.

Public Services and Procurement Canada said the Lockport facility will close to marine vessels at midnight Oct. 14 and remain closed until spring or summer of next year.

Following the closure, officials will begin drawing down the section of the Red River between Lockport and Winnipeg, causing water levels on the Red and Assiniboine rivers in and around Winnipeg to fluctuate.

If winter conditions arrive before the scheduled closure or the dam is placed in its winter setting, its curtains could be fully lifted with little notice, causing water levels to drop.

Owners of vessels, barges and other property along the Red and Assiniboine rivers and their tributaries are being advised to take precautions to protect their property.

Gated areas below the dam may also be closed due to turbulent water, dangerous currents, severe weather or operational requirements. Once closed, those areas will remain off-limits until spring.