GRCA’s annual removal of booms and buoys underway

Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) crews are completing the annual fall removal of its safety booms and buoys over the coming days.

The booms and buoys are installed each spring upstream of GRCA dams to alert paddlers, anglers and boaters to stay away from the dams. The booms and buoys are in addition to permanent signage that is installed at GRCA-owned dams warning people of dangers around dams and alerting paddlers and boaters of portage access points.

The removal of these buoys and booms is expected to be completed by Friday, October 25, depending on weather conditions. The removal is necessary since the buoys and booms would be damaged or displaced if left in the water during the winter months when ice and high-water flow events are common. The GRCA follows Transport Canada regulatory approvals under the Navigable Waters Protection Act, which indicate safety booms or buoys should be in place during the navigation season (May to October).

Dams can pose serious hazards that can result in injuries or even fatalities if warning signs are ignored. Water surges through gates and valves or over the dams, creating strong undertows and currents around the structures, which can be extremely dangerous.

It is important to remember that while the water around dams may appear peaceful, the areas upstream and downstream are much more dangerous. The GRCA urges all water enthusiasts to heed all warning signs and stay away from the dams for their own safety.

In addition to the installation of buoys and booms and associated signage, the GRCA attends community events to promote dam safety, and educates children about the hazards associated with dam structures through its Outdoor Environmental Education Program and at children’s water festivals. The GRCA also produces an easy-to-read booklet on water and dam safety tips for children, with copies available for school classes located within the Grand River watershed. For more information about safety around GRCA dams, please visit the 
water safety page to learn more about the potential hazards and necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

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Media Contacts:

James Clark, Senior Communications and Marketing Advisor
Phone 519-621-2763 x2240  |  Email jclark@grandriver.ca 

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Manager, Strategic Communications and Environmental Education
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316  |  Email lstocco@grandriver.ca