The Ministry of Highways announced on Wednesday morning that the Lemsford Ferry is closed for repairs.
No timetable was given on what is usually a quick service disruption, though thankfully the Lancer Ferry to the east is still a nearby option. Lancer is currently open for light loads only with a weight restriction of 4000 kg, Estuary to the west is also open for light loads, and the Riverhurst Ferry, capable of holding up to 183,252 kg, is open for normal operations.
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- Low water levels on South Saskatchewan River prompt ferry closures, event changes
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Low river levels have been a major talking point with local ferries in and out of service.
Recent closures for Estuary and Lancer have been due to insufficient river depth, no reason given yet for the Lemsford location, though one report shared it recently only had the east crossing open because of a big sand bank in the middle of the west crossing. Those low water levels along with high sediment flow are still prompting concern in areas and causing hydro professionals to pay close attention.
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We shared the original story on that topic above back on June 18, and 75 comments poured in from concerned Saskatchewan residents. Among the many points made, a main consensus was concern over expensive plans to irrigate out of the South Saskatchewan River without these problems being alleviated.
"We all can't get irrigation and when there is a drought they should not be allowed to irrigate"
"And yet they want to continue with big irrigation project, to benefit a small number of farmers."
Another comment shared that everyone can do their part to save water.
"Yes, the water level is low, and people need to cut back on water usage same as irrigation needs to cut back," read the comment. "They say you don’t miss the water till the well runs dry. Think about that, we need so much to bring the moisture level back up, its super dry out there we can all help to some extent."
Some people are still waiting for the river to flow, others skeptical that extra water will even come. An estimated four inches of rain fell by the river which should alleviate some concerns, but there's no doubt a low river table is going to be a common topic throughout the summer.