STUDY COMMISSIONED ON RIVERHURST FERRY YEAR-ROUND OPERATION

Released on October 24, 1997

Highways and Transportation Minister Judy Bradley announced today a

study is being done to determine the feasibility of installing an

"air bubbler system" at the Riverhurst Ferry Crossing in order that it

could be operated on a year-round basis.



"We are undertaking this study because people in the area have asked

for year-round service from the ferry," Bradley said. "If we can

provide a year-round transportation service, I am confident that

discussions with communities and local industry can identify further

opportunities for social and economic development to benefit Lucky

Lake and Riverhurst."



The air bubbler system will be studied by SHM Marine International of

Victoria. The air bubbler system works by pushing air through the

warmer water at deeper levels, forcing it to the surface to melt the

ice. Such systems have been used successfully in Ontario and British

Columbia. The Riverhurst Ferry provides service on the 2.2 km route

across Diefenbaker Lake from April 15 to approximately December 15,

depending on the weather.



The study will evaluate the practicality of the air bubbler

system for keeping the ferry channel open in the winter; water

conditions and depths in the terminal areas and in the ferry

route, means of distributing the bubbler air throughout the ferry

route; and suitability of the current ferry and cable system for

full year operation.



The study is expected to cost about $31,000 and a report should

be received from the consultant by the end of November.



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For more information, contact:



Sukhy Kent

Project Management Team

Highways and Transportation

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-4776