Update 9/30: Then canal has reopened.

Update 9/28 from the Welcome Center:

We are making progress.  The ACOE was able to assist 4 boats which were still in the canal, due to high water and the inability to open the Locks gates, to leave over the past two days.  We understand the Elizabeth Barge crew will scout outside of the South Mills Lock for any issues and the Corps will continue to release high waters from Lake Drummond.  The Dismal Swamp State Park reopened after a closure of a week.   

They are observing some systems which may bring more rainfall tonight,  before allowing boats back into the Canal.  It has been a very busy week for the ACOE staff, Elizabeth crew and our lockmasters.  Give them a vote of appreciation when you see them.   

Locally, we still have flooded roads and people dealing with flood damage.  Keep them all in your thoughts.  Will let you know when the Canal can accept our guests when we get the word. 

Thanks for sharing. 

Donna

Update 9/26 3:50pm: The latest from the Welcome Center:

I spoke to  Joel Scussel, ACOE Projects Manager regarding the most current status of their progress this morning.  He reports the water is currently being lowered about 2” a day and we still need to go down about 6”.  They plan to clean around the spillways today to remove accumulated debris. Joel states they know water is in the gear boxes at the locks and will have to have them assessed for damage. 

The Elizabeth barge is in the canal and will assist with any downed trees.  We had lots of rain, possibly 13” reported throughout much of the region, but did not have high winds.  The Elizabeth’s crew hopes to take care of any trees tomorrow.  Our local  weather forecast includes more rainfall over the next couple of days, with accumulations forecasted of .5 to 2 inches.

Dr. Bill Spaur provided the photo of Arbuckle Landing on Sunday which is near the Feeder Ditch and he gave me permission to share.  I don’t know if I shared the photo to the entrance of the Locks at South Mills or not, but this photo was taken Friday morning and our South Mills lockmaster reports it has not changed.

 The DS State Park is also closed due to high water, which renders the bridge inoperable.  I have personally noted a fairly strong current with the release of water from Lake Drummond into the Canal which filters out to both of our locks, north and south.  It is my belief, it is probably inadvisable for paddlers in the canal, due to strong currents created from the water release.

 We have a boater who has been stuck with us since Tuesday, and left Belhaven to avoid Julia……..surprise!  They have been extremely patient and understanding, but even our world renown hospitality may not be enough.

 We will try to keep you posted about any new updates.

 Donna

Donna Stewart, Director

Dismal Swamp Welcome Center

Update 9/24 11:19 am: The folks from the Wecome Center sent up this update a few minutes ago.

I spoke with Frank at the South Mills lock this morning and was told the Dismal Swamp Canal would be closed the rest of the weekend.  Water is still being released due to high levels.  Once water levels have dropped the gear motors will have to be checked.  The Dismal Swamp State Park is also closed.  We’ve had many boaters call about the status of the canal and we wanted to keep you up to date.

Sarah Hill, Assistant Director
Dismal Swamp Welcome Center

Update 9/23 3:51pm: The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal Route is open, the Dismal Swamp Canal remains closed.

Due to heavy rains and high water the Dismal Swamp Canal is closed. The locks are not operating due to concern that the pressure from the water flow will damage the gates. An update is scheduled for Friday morning.

There are also reports that several bridges on the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal Route south of Great Bridge are not operational. Waterway Guide is attempting to get additional information.