The Marine Transportation Services (MTS) sailing schedule and transportation plans for the 2023 sailing season are being adjusted due to low water levels on the Mackenzie River.
MTS says low water levels, especially near the ramparts south of Fort Good Hope, may result in certain sections of the Mackenzie River impassible for tugs and barges sailing out of Hay River
Water levels at the ramparts section of the Mackenzie River south of Fort Good Hope are reported at 2.7 metres. According to the GNWT, at two metres, the area becomes impassable for MTS shallow draft vessels.
“One of MTS’s priorities is to do all it can so residents and businesses that rely on its services for essential freight and fuel get these supplies in a cost-effective manner and without delay,” Minister of Infrastructure Diane Archie says.
In order to alleviate the risks associated with low water levels, MTS has introduced a hybrid transportation model to move fuel and cargo to remote communities.
According to MTS, all cargo for Inuvik, Aklavik, Tuktoyaktuk, Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Ulukhaktok, and Kugluktuk will be trucked to Inuvik and barged to the five other communities.
“I recognize these adjustments to the sailing schedule and mode of transportation may impact and inconvenience some MTS customers, but they are necessary to reduce risk, complete essential resupply activities and have a successful 2023 sailing season,” Archie adds.
For a complete list of changes to the 2023 schedule, click here.
