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Crossing the South Saskatchewan River could prove to be a difficult task this week in parts of the province.
Thick Rocky Mountain snowpack and heavy rain in Alberta have caused water levels to rise significantly upstream from the Gardiner Dam.
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As of Monday afternoon those high water levels had closed the ferry crossings in Estuary, Lemsford, and Lancer near Swift Current and Paynton in North Battleford.
Dan Palmer, with the Ministry of Highways, said that it’s a pretty normal occurrence.
“Some of the factors that can contribute to the closures of ferries are high water levels, which we do see as part of the annual spring runoff, localized spring rainfall, those types of things,” he said.
The good news is, if you’re looking to cross the South Saskatchewan downstream of the Gardiner Dam, the situation looks a little better, although Palmer said things can always change quickly.
“There hasn’t been any closures related to that, but ferries that we’re monitoring … and may potentially adjust their service or potentially close are Weldon, Fenton, Clarkboro, Hague, and St. Laurent,” he said.
Palmer said it’s not just high water levels that can pose a threat to ferries and they are constantly monitored to make sure they are safe to operate.
“Whether it’s the dam opening up, which would cause water levels to potentially increase, or whether it’s the weather, we’ll adjust ferry operations as needed to ensure the fleet of vessels aren’t damaged, potentially due to debris.
“It’s our top priority to ensure the safety of our crews and the passengers we carry in their vehicles. So we’ll adjust based on a combination of factors throughout the year,” Palmer said.
He urged drivers in the province who need to make a trek across the river to check the Highway Hotline.
“Check that Highway Hotline before you head out for the current status of any ferry in the province, and check it again before you return,” Palmer said.
— with files from CKOM News
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