Removal of the Lake Erie-Niagara River Ice Boom to Begin April 6

Removal of the Lake Erie Niagara River ice boom will begin Monday, April 6, 2026. The ice boom is typically removed by April 1 or when ice coverage in the eastern basin of Lake Erie, the portion of the lake east of a line between Long Point, Ontario and Erie, Pennsylvania, is less than 650 square kilometers (250 square miles). Satellite imagery from March 30, 2026, indicates ice coverage met this requirement, and the International Niagara Board of Control could authorize removal to begin. However, a significant amount of ice remains in the lower Niagara River, and inclement weather is forecast in the coming days including rain and high winds that could create unsafe work conditions. As a result, and in accordance with provisions in the International Joint Commission Order of Approval governing operation of the ice boom, removal will begin Monday, April 6.

The ice boom is owned and operated by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and Ontario Power Generation. Use of the ice boom is authorized by the International Joint Commission, and the International Niagara Board of Control oversees installation, operation, and removal. In accordance with the International Joint Commission Order of Approval that governs operation of the ice boom, NYPA will begin removal as ice conditions and safe working conditions allow. The latest ice boom opening was May 3, 1971. The earliest start date was February 28, 2012.

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 of ice entering the river reduces the potential for ice jams, which can result in damage to shoreline property and significantly reduce water flow for hydro-electric power production.

Visit the Board's webpage to learn more about the IJC approval or ice boom frequently asked questions.

For more information on ice boom installation, operation, and removal contact Louis Paonessa, NYPA at (716) 548-2141 or [email protected]

or

In Canada contact Hafiz Ahmad, Canadian Secretary to the International Niagara Board of Control at (905) 220-8181 or [email protected]

In the United States contact Lynn Greer, Public Involvement Specialist to the International Niagara Board of Control at (716) 866-3417 or [email protected]