ATLANTIC FIR : Mechanical problems on the St-Lawrence River

[Steve Geronazzo]

Today (2011-12-30), the tug ATLANTIC FIR had just left Quebec City towing a barge when after just a few miles had to stop because of mechanical problems. I overheard on the VHF radio that they had problems with the suction pumps. Another tug from the Groupe Ocean (OCEAN ROSS GAUDREAULT) went to help the ATLANTIC FIR. The tug and barge are heading East to Newfoundland. The ATLANTIC FIR and OCEAN ROSS GAUDREAULT are presently in front of l'

[Steve Geronazzo]

Update : (2011-12-31) 9h00 EST

ATLANTIC FIR is on its way to Newfoundland on its own. OCEAN ROSS GAUDREAULT is returning to Quebec City.

Steve Geronazzo

[Trucker001]

 It seems like there is something to do with ice clogging the pumping systems in that area maybe fresh water meeting salt water up there when the ice is slushy

[Steve Geronazzo]

Hi Rob,

I guess that is the problem. It was really bad yesterday. Two ships had to stop their journey near Quebec City.

It is probably like that every year.

Thanks for the reply.

Steve

[Jean Hemond]

Thanks for all that info about the difficulties of winter navigation on the St-Lawrence.

It is a highly under-exploited natural resource " A path that walks" used to say the natives that dindn't have to paddle to travel!

 When comparing with European waterways economics; massive benefits, not counting social and environmental advantages would result if this country  Canada and Quebec in peculiar could get around the still foggy " roadblocks" consisting of
 opposing financial interests and lobbies, obsolete regulations and lack of  government vision. 

[Francis B-Morel]

Totally agree with you Jean.
One of the problems is that Quebec government grant trucking industry.

Tanks for your good job Steve.

Francis