Derek Neary
Northern News Services

NNSL (Sep 11/98) - Despite the diminishing volume of water, the ferry linking Fort Simpson to the mainland isn't yet in danger of shutting down, according to Gerald Perron, manager of marine services.

"We're experiencing low water levels earlier than usual this year," Perron said. "We're still moving traffic right now with no problems... I can't predict what's going to happen two weeks from now."

The "Lafferty" has been forced to use an indirect route as a gravel bar has obstructed the former direct course.

"That's the deepest channel that there is around there. We're sticking to it as a preventative caution so we don't get any damage to the vessel," he said, adding that when the ferry is carrying a full load it draws one metre of water.

He added that weight restrictions haven't been necessary to this point but may be in the near future if the water level continues to drop. There should be plenty of notice if weight restrictions are imposed and before the service is cancelled for the year, Perron said.

"We're making every effort to update the toll free (information) number," he said. "Usually what happens is the heavier traffic gets restricted. We still operate with light traffic only. Then eventually we run out of water or ice conditions prevent us from operating."

The Mackenzie River is also shallower than usual but there have been no resulting complications, according to Perron.

The low water levels are a result of the lack of precipitation from B.C. and the southern Yukon, where the watershed helps to feed the river, said Perron.