City of Calgary lifts boating advisory on the Bow River
Due to improving conditions on the Bow River, The Calgary Fire Department has lifted the boating advisory issued on June 1.
“The flow rate has stabilized below the 280 m3/s trigger point and river conditions have improved,” says Carol Henke, Public Information Officer, Calgary Fire Department of the recently-improving conditions on the Bow River. “At this level, people can resume normal activities on the river.”
Flow levels are closely monitored by several City departments. A boating advisory is issued when flows exceed 280 m3/s, as these levels present challenges for river users. During the spring/summer runoff season, melting snow and floating debris can create dangerous conditions for people on the river, which prompted the advisory issued at the beginning of June.
However, a lifted advisory does not negate the need for caution on the Bow River. The City’s Partners in Water Safety – The Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Service and Calgary Community Standards – remind Calgarians of the risks associated with all bodies of water.
“Be prepared for anything on the water,” Henke adds. “Always be alert, wear a life jacket and don’t venture out on the river if you’re intoxicated.”
The City of Calgary encourages all water users to familiarize themselves with safety practice bylaws and safety alerts on calgary.ca/watersafety and monitor flow levels at rivers.alberta.ca.
Harvie Passage remains closed to recreational boat traffic until 2018. The province of Alberta continues to restore the passage and during this time this section of the river poses extreme risk.
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