High water levels and flows caused by extreme amounts of precipitation have resulted in unsafe boating conditions across both waterways. For safety reasons, Parks Canada has delayed the start of the 2017 navigation season for the Rideau Canal and the Trent Severn Waterway by one week to Friday May 26, 2017.

Until May 26, 2017, the Rideau Canal and the Trent Severn Waterway are closed to all boat traffic and all forms of water-based activities are discouraged. This closure most importantly protect boater safety, and will help to prevent further shoreline erosion and property damage experienced by local residents and businesses. During this week, Parks Canada will continue to diligently make adjustments to water flows in order to restore safe conditions in preparation for the navigation season.

The public are welcome to continue to enjoy the canals' lock stations, which will be fully open to land-based visitors effective May 19, 2017 and lock staff will be on hand to welcome them.

All visitors are encouraged to always exercise caution around water but especially now with the current elevated water levels and flows.

For more information about the Rideau Canal, visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/rideau, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @RideauCanalNHS.

For the most current boater specific information, please follow us on twitter: Rideau Canal: @RideauBoatInfo, @RideauInfoNav