Exploring the Challenging Waterway Locations in Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba
To truly be a responsible boater, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the waterways you’ll be navigating. While nautical maps offer valuable information, they may not cover all the details you need to know. Let’s dive into specific areas along the Lee River and Pinawa Channel in Lac du Bonnet that require your attention due to the unique challenges they present.
The Rock Pile (50° 18′ 41″ N – 95° 51′ 29″ W)
Situated on the Lee River, this narrow passage witnesses the transit of over 298 boats per hour during peak use in the summer months. As its name suggests, the passage is surrounded by rock piles, resulting in shallow waters that only allow one boat to pass at a time.
Jumping Rocks (50° 19′ 08″ N – 95° 49′ 14″ W and 50° 22′ 41″ N – 95° 49′ 57″ W)
These areas attract heavy boat traffic as people anchor their boats to enjoy climbing the rock face and diving into the water. While navigating through this area, it’s crucial to exercise consideration for swimmers, divers, and anchored boats. Be mindful of your speed and the wake you create.
PTH 313 Bridge (50° 16′ 12″ N – 95° 52′ 46″ W)
This bridge marks the convergence of the Pinawa Channel and Lee River. During peak times, it experiences a crossing rate of over 197 vessels per hour. The bridge area is characterized by reduced visibility, narrow passage, shallow banks, and a strong current. When passing through, exercise caution, maintain an appropriate speed, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Old Pinawa Dam (50° 21′ 55″ N – 95° 92′ 52″ W)
A popular attraction for locals and visitors alike, the decommissioned Pinawa Dam draws significant boat traffic. This area is known for its high traffic volumes, especially during summer weekends. Be prepared for heavy congestion in this area and swimmers in the water.
The Pinawa Channel to the Rock Pile (95° 82′ 73″ N 50° 38′ 53″ W to 50° 18′ 41″ N – 95° 51′ 29″ W)
This section of the waterway is particularly narrow, with some areas measuring no more than 100 meters wide, while the widest parts reach 300 meters. Combined with high traffic volume, it necessitates caution for all users. Swimmers, paddlers, and leisurely cruisers frequent the banks of this stretch. Due to the high traffic volume and the convergence of just about every water activity known to man, towing activities and wake boat activities are discouraged in this area during peak use times.
Tips When Navigating These Challenging Waterway Locations
As boaters, it is our responsibility to prioritize safety and respect the well-being of others enjoying the waters. Whether you’re cruising along the Lee River or navigating the Pinawa Channel, here are some essential guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone along these challenging waterway locations:
Be considerate of others: When operating your boat, be mindful of the wake you create. Maintain a safe distance from shorelines to protect paddlers and swimmers who are enjoying their time on the water. Your actions can significantly impact their safety and enjoyment.
Mind your speed and watch your wake: Controlling your speed is crucial for maintaining a safe environment. By moderating your pace, you minimize the potential hazards caused by excessive waves and turbulence. Keep in mind that excessive speed can also make it challenging to react to unexpected situations.
Stay aware of your surroundings: Constant vigilance is key to boating safety. Stay alert and be aware of other vessels, swimmers, divers, and any potential obstacles in your vicinity. Adjust your actions accordingly to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth navigation experience.
Swimming safety: If you plan to take a dip in the water, prioritize your personal safety. Wear a brightly coloured life jacket to enhance your visibility to boaters. Stick to areas close to the shore, where boat traffic is less frequent, and avoid venturing into waters beyond your skill level. By following these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and worry-free swimming experience.
Move towing activities to more open or less congested areas: During times of heavy traffic, consider relocating your towing activities to areas of the Lee River or Lac du Bonnet Lake where there is more space and less boat traffic. This not only enhances your own safety but also allows other boaters to navigate the challenging waterways more comfortably. Plus, with fewer obstructions to worry about, you and your towing partners can have more fun enjoying the activity.
Remember, ensuring safety on Canadian waterways is a shared responsibility between boaters and the governing organizations. As a boater, it is imperative to operate your boat safely by learning and adhering to the applicable rules and regulations in the waters where you’ll be boating.
Disclaimer: The information provided in our articles about waterway safety in Lac du Bonnet is for general informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, it may not be up-to-date or applicable to every situation. Consult official sources and local authorities for the most current and accurate information. Our articles do not substitute professional advice, and readers should exercise their own judgment and consider their specific circumstances. We are not liable for any loss or injury resulting from the use of the information provided. Follow applicable laws, regulations, and safety guidelines and seek professional advice when needed. Waterway activities carry inherent risks, and individuals are responsible for their own safety. The content may change without notice. Consult local authorities for specific concerns or questions regarding waterway safety in Manitoba.
AIS, or Aquatic Invasive Species, pose a significant threat to our water bodies, affecting both the environment and recreational activities. It is crucial that we all play our part in preventing their spread.
Whether you’re a casual boater or a commercial operator, the legislation applies to everyone who enjoys the province’s waterways. These regulations focus on the movement of AIS through various means such as watercraft, aircraft, vehicles, equipment, and bait use. Prior to entering or leaving a water body, individuals and operators are required to take specific measures to ensure AIS does not transfer from one location to another.
To learn more about these important regulations, including cleaning requirements and legislation, please visit the Legislation, Regulations, and Set Fines section on the Government of Manitoba website. Additionally, you can find valuable information about AIS in the Manitoba Angler’s Guide, helping us all stay informed and safeguard our beloved water resources. Read more here
About the Safe Boating Ambassador Program
The Safe Boating Ambassador program is a community-driven initiative designed to increase boating safety and etiquette awareness in Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba specific to the Lee River and Pinawa Channel. Working together, we will contribute to the education of safe waterway use by promoting:
1. Waterway safety, as governed by Transport Canada, and
2. General good boating etiquette for specific activities, focusing on those that occur on our waterways.
The Safe Boating Ambassadors are members of the boating community, avid paddlers, stand-up paddleboarders, wake surfers, water skiers, and boaters. The members will act as Waterway Safety Leaders for the community of Lac du Bonnet, sharing and encouraging all waterway users to safely partake in all waterway activities.
