The City of Prince George is working feverishly to remove ice from the back-channel of the Nechako River.
The stretch of ice runs from Cottonwood Island Park to underneath the Replica bridge, which means the Heritage River Trail is still closed.
City Director of External Relations Rob van Adrichem says they’re functioning at a Level One protocol.
“Water levels have been remaining fairly static over the last couple of days; we’re continuing to have monitoring, day and night, at specific locations and at regular intervals.”
UPDATE: #CityofPG Fire Rescue Services' efforts on the Nechako River. https://t.co/XfcKSeLRsA pic.twitter.com/xvILDbwlaq
— Prince George, BC (@CityofPG) December 22, 2016
He says it’s critical to accommodate any potential rise in water levels as it may be caused the presence of ice.
He adds patience is important when dealing with this issue.
“It’s really critical that we maintain that consistent monitoring, so that we can assess when things might be changing.”
Stationary ice is evident for about 12 kilometres up the Nechako from the confluence with the Fraser and water levels aren’t currently rising.
Parking at Kiwanis Park, the boat launch, and the Spruce City Wildlife Association Fish Hatchery remains closed as well.
The City is distributing an update to nearly 240 residents and businesses along the river, PG Pulpmill, Preston, Pozer, and Ongman Road; the letter provides information on how sandbags and sand can be requested.
Work is underway to remove ice from part of the Nechako River at Cottonwood Island Park. #CityofPG https://t.co/TGjFKk2KgL pic.twitter.com/DOi4Ti9WNI
— Prince George, BC (@CityofPG) December 21, 2016