Statement from the Hogansburg Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department

Snowmobilers and ice fishermen please read:

With the recent cold spell we have ice cover on many of our local rivers. The cold weather has also created a major delay with the closing of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

On Monday, January 1 the Federal Biscay became wedged partially in the Snell Lock, as of January 2 @ 8:00pm efforts to move the vessel have been unsuccessful.

The current plan is to free the vessel so it may continue its travel down bound. Along with the Biscay there are 4 other down bound vessels that will follow through Snell down to Beauharnois. To accomplish this there will be ice breaking activities at the lower side of Snell and the shipping channel from Snell through Lac. St Francis to Beauharnois.

Please be aware of changing ice conditions in these areas and watch for ice breaking activities.

Remember: NO ICE IS SAFE ICE