Work is being done to remove a houseboat wreck from the St. Lawrence River near Prescott that’s been abandoned there since 2019.
Keven Raymond is the Superintendent of the Vessels of Concern program and he says it’s their mandate to address all vessels and wrecks that pose an environmental hazard, or health risks.
Raymond says his team completed a technical assessment when they discovered the wreck and they noted a slight risk to the public and the environment.
“It’s easily accessible, which presents an issue for health and safety,” Raymond said. “The vessel is in advanced deterioration, with spare parts on the beach and in the boat, so public safety is a major issue.”
According to Raymond, the vessel is in violation of the country’s Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, which governs problemed vessels in Canadian waters.
The Act improves owner responsibility and liability, addresses irresponsible management, including a ban on abandonment; and enhances federal powers to take proactive action on hazardous vessels.
The boat’s exact location is in Wexford, near the Battle of the Windmill Historical Site.
Raymond says they are optimistic they may be able to find the boat’s owner, before they take any action.
“If nobody shows up, we’ll be finding companies that can remove this wreck safely and hopefully prevent any pollutants or environmental hazards,” he said.
Raymond adds if they cannot find the owner, the boat will be removed by the end of August.
To report wrecked, abandoned or hazardous vessels, you can contact the Canadian Coast Guard at 1-800-363-4735.