Channel Markers Being Removed

Channel markers line the Thousand Islands Regional Dock in 2010.
Photo by David Pritt

Clayton, New York (December 16, 2011) – The St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation has begun their seasonal removal of channel markers from the St. Lawrence River throughout the Thousand Islands Region.

Each winter, prior to the closing of the Seaway, tugs Robinson Bay and Performance make their way along the St. Lawrence River removing channel markers. Channel markers are lifted from the icy cold water and placed upon a work barge and then transported to Clayton, where the markers are hoisted onto the Thousand Islands Regional Dock for winter storage.

During the few days that the crew works in the region, the tugs will dock at the Thousand Islands Regional Dock in downtown Clayton. In keeping with recent tradition, the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation’s flag will fly high above Frink Park when the tugs are in town.

Ship traffic will continue despite a number of markers being removed. The St. Lawrence Seaway is scheduled to close on December 29 at 11:59 p.m. and a 2012 opening date will be announced over the winter months.

The Thousand Islands Regional Dock is conveniently located at Frink Park along Riverside Drive in downtown Clayton.