Kirkfield Lift Lock modified lockages to start the 2023 season

May 18, 2023

On September 2, 2022, the Kirkfield Lift Lock site was closed due to a mechanical failure. Since then, construction crews have been on-site working to restore the Kirkfield Lift Lock to full operation. While repairs are progressing well, Parks Canada wishes to advise boaters that expedited single-chamber lockages will be in place for the beginning of the 2023 season.

These single-chamber lockages will operate on demand and are estimated to take approximately 60 minutes. This timing will be finalized upon the final commissioning of a new pump installation. In addition, short delays may be experienced as vessels are grouped for each transfer. Boaters are being requested to remain on their vessels during the transfer and listen carefully to all instructions provided by lock staff.

Given the current conditions and with construction activities expected to continue outside of regular hours of operation, overnight mooring is not recommended at this time, and boaters are encouraged to moor at adjacent lockstations. If boaters should decide to moor at the Kirkfield Lift Lock site, they will be placed on the upper reach of the Lift Lock but will be able to access the grounds and public washrooms via the south stairs from the upper reach.

For land-based visitors, due to the requirements of the construction project, the public parking lot at the lockstation will be closed until further notice. Visitors to the site are also asked to respect any temporary restrictions to the grounds that may be in place for the construction project.

Additional updates on the completion of the repairs will be announced as the project progresses and will be posted on the Lock 36 – Kirkfield Lift Lock webpage located here. 

Interested individuals can also subscribe to our email update list by sending an email to trentsevern@pc.gc.ca and including “Kirkfield Lift Lock” in the subject line.

Visitor safety, as well as the safety of our team members and contractors, is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada – delays with this process may occur, and we appreciate your understanding and patience.