BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the Niagara River ice boom installation is planned to begin December 10.
"Each winter since 1964, the Lake Erie-Niagara River Ice Boom has been installed near the outlet of Lake Erie to reduce the amount of ice entering the Niagara River. A reduction in ice entering the river reduces the potential for ice jams, which can result in damage to shoreline property and significantly reduce water flow for hydroelectric power production," a release states.
Officials say the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) requested an early date for the start of installation of the 1.7-mile boom.
"Extra installation time reduces the likelihood of the need for dangerous, late-season installation, while providing time for implementation of any required safe COVID-19 working procedures."
