#9 – November 05, 2001 – Closing of the 2001 Navigation Season

November 5, 2001

The Seaway entities confirm that the closing procedures outlined in Seaway Notice No. 6 dated August 28, 2001 will be in effect at the end of the 2001 navigation season.

Montreal-Lake Ontario Section

Mariners are reminded that the clearance date for the navigation season is 2400 hours, December 20.

For the Montreal-Lake Ontario Section, vessel demand, weather and ice conditions will dictate the final closing date. It will be announced as early as possible in December (via Radio Messages), whether or not, based upon operating conditions, vessels will be subject to operational surcharges on Dec 21, 22 and 23, however the surcharges will not be waived for Dec 24.

Welland Canal

Vessels will be accepted to transit the Welland Canal upbound at CIP15 and downbound at CIP16 up to 0800 hours December 24. The Welland Canal may be kept open beyond this date depending on vessel demand and operating conditions. However, vessel transits after 0800 hours December 24, if permitted, will be subject to Agents/Owners signing a written agreement with the SLSMC.

Mariners are reminded that there is always a possibility that severe climatic conditions may occur during the closing period. Should this happen, there is a chance that the above-noted dates, for the Montreal-Lake Ontario Section and/or the Welland Canal, may not be met.

The Seaway entities will monitor weather conditions and demand, and the final closing dates for both sections will be confirmed (via Radio Messages) when better information is available.

Sault Ste. Marie Locks and Canal

United States

The official closing date for the Sault Ste. Marie Locks (U.S.A.) is 2400 hours January 15, 2002.

Ports East of Montreal

Vessel owners and operators are advised that there are a number of ports east of the Seaway (St. Lambert Lock) on the St. Lawrence River that remain open to navigation during the winter months.