Kootenay Lake Ferry Service Improvements - Dredging

Dredging in the shallows of the West Arm of Kootenay Lake was completed in Fall of 2019 to avoid future service changes to the Kootenay Lake Ferry Service.

Dredging locations in the west arm of Kootenay Lake

---

From September 24 to November 30, 2019, the Province dredged three shallow areas in the West Arm of Kootenay Lake to ensure the long-term navigational safety of the Kootenay Lake Ferry Service.

Environment

The Province is committed to completing this work in compliance with all applicable environmental regulations and with minimal impact on the environment and habitat. Environmental monitors were onsite to ensure that commitment was met.

Material dredged from the shallows was safely deposited in the main body of Kootenay Lake, as approved by all relevant regulatory bodies.
 

Background

Depth surveys had identified three shallow areas in the channel that impacted safe navigation through the West Arm. To ensure ongoing safety and reliability, dredging was required at these shallow points.

Now that dredging is completed, MV Osprey 2000 has improved capacity to safely navigate the West Arm at all times of year. Together with other improvements, such as the procurement of a new right-sized electric-ready ferry, and safety and amenity improvements to both the Balfour and Kootenay Bay terminals, ferry users will be able to enjoy a safer and more reliable ferry service.