Icebreaking in Bath, Ontario

March 24, 2026 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Coast Guard

The Canadian Coast Guard advises that the CCGS Des Groseilliers will conduct icebreaking operations near Bath, Ontario, on or around March 26. The purpose of this operation is to break ice so commercial vessels can navigate safely in and out of the area. The date is subject to change depending on operational requirements or weather conditions.

The Canadian Coast Guard reminds the public that it can be very dangerous to venture onto the ice and encourages individuals to familiarize themselves with ice safety tips. Broken and fragmented ice tracks and ridging left behind by passing icebreakers or commercial vessels may not freeze over immediately, creating hazardous conditions for ice users. In addition, newly fallen snow will obscure ship tracks. Unsafe ice conditions can persist long after icebreakers have left the area.

Icebreaking on the Great Lakes and connecting waterways is delivered through close co-operation between the Canadian and United States Coast Guards. By working together, the two Coast Guards support the safe movement of scheduled vessel traffic through the shipping channels and in and out of community harbours. Vessels will be assigned as needed to provide this service.