Looking south from from Ranney Falls Generating Station in Campbellford. (Photo: Ian Davis, Ranney Falls Suspension Gorge Facebook)
RELEASE FROM PARKS CANADA
Safety is a top priority for Parks Canada. Parks Canada advises the public of unsafe ice conditions on the canal and river sections around the Ranney Falls Generating Station adjacent to Lock 12 of the Trent-Severn Waterway.
Located within the community of Campbellford, Ontario, in the Municipality of Trent Hills, Ranney Falls Generating Station has been under construction for the last 23 months (since March 2017). During this period, generating units have been out of service creating what may appear to be safe ice on this section of the canal.
On March 5, 2019, operations will recommence resulting in water flows returning to normal. This can undermine ice thickness and stability and create a significant risk to anyone venturing onto the ice. Parks Canada reminds the public to refrain from accessing this portion of the canal due to unsafe ice conditions.
In addition, Parks Canada encourages the public to use caution in and around the waterway structures and channels over the winter months. From mid-October to the end of May, lock stations are closed and the use of the waterway will be at one’s own risk. Unmarked hazards may exist. Wet leaves, ice and snow may remain on stairs and walkways, and ice conditions on the waterway can vary.
