Fluctuating river levels foul ferry
There has been slight improvement to water levels: Department of Transportation
Kassina Ryder
Northern News Services
Monday, October 24, 2016
NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Travellers using the M.V. Lafferty ferry on Highway 1 near Fort Simpson are being cautioned the service could shut down again with no warning.
The MV Lafferty ferry could shut down with short notice, warns the DOT. - NNSL file photo |
"There have been slight improvements in the water levels after the rapid decline seen a few days ago," stated a Department of Transportation news release issued on Oct. 20.
"It is still strongly recommended, however, that travellers complete their essential movements of goods as soon as possible.
"The Lafferty ferry could close within a week or sooner if the conditions warrant a closure."
Ferry service shut down for about 72 hours last week, but resumed on Oct. 20.
The department stated the ferry would run from 8 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. until further notice.
The department also advised that advanced warning of a closure might not be possible if conditions worsen quickly.
"DOT will continue to monitor the water levels at both crossings on a regular basis and will attempt to provide an update prior to the actual closing date," the release stated.
"However, rapidly deteriorating conditions may not permit such prior notice."
The ferry is located just east of Fort Simpson's airport, where Highway 1 crosses the Liard River.
The M.V. Johnny Berens Ferry near Wrigley on Highway 1 is running daily from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. and from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m.
