Winter Shipping

Save The River was founded in 1978 on the issue of winter navigation. We fought proposals for demonstrations of winter navigation to the Federal level and we stand with the belief that the health of the River environment must take priority over international shipping. As a pinch-point for the Great Lakes, we will not let the dignity of the Upper St. Lawrence be ignored.

Although the initial proposals for an extended shipping season have quieted, Save The River is still concerned about a lengthening Seaway season, especially in ice conditions. Here’s a few reasons why:

• Spill response assets, such as boats and boom, are not accessible and usable due to ice conditions. This means we would not be able to clean up the oil.
• Wave loading from ships is multiplied, eroding the River bottom, resident property, and the shoreline.
• Lighted navigation aids are not in place, raising concerns about the safe passage of ships.

The open water on the River over the last few years does not justify an extended shipping season. The River deserves a season of rest from activity.