To ensure everyone has the most up to date information regarding concerns about prop wash efforts at the Grand Bend Marina and Port Franks Marina, please see the update below from the Municipality of Lambton Shores.
Each year, the Municipality diligently applies for and obtains the necessary permits from various regulatory agencies to conduct prop washing and in-water work in the channels at the Grand Bend and Port Franks marinas. This administrative process typically begins in late August each year to prepare for the following year. The Municipality was successful in securing the required permits for in-water work in 2025.
The Municipality began prop washing efforts in early May 2025, and as of May 15, staff successfully improved channel depths at both marinas to a depth of 6 feet. However, it's important to note that the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has an established period during which no in-water work can occur, between May 15 and June 30.
Unfortunately, shortly after the restriction period began, weather events with strong north winds significantly reversed some of that progress. The Grand Bend Marina in particular is seeing consistently shallow depths, with current weekly soundings ranging from 3 to 4 feet at the shallowest areas. These depths can change rapidly, depending on conditions of the day and weekly soundings cannot be relied on to accurately depict the conditions of the day.
The Municipality continues to work with the MNR on possible solutions, however, the restrictions currently remain in place until July 1, 2025. As a result of these conditions, Transport Canada issued a Navigational Warning for the Grand Bend harbour on May 24, 2025, which remains in place.
Boaters are reminded of their personal responsibility to safely navigate waterways, and to familiarize themselves with the conditions in their area.
Our team is fully prepared to resume prop washing efforts immediately after the restrictions lift. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience and understanding.
Contact Us