Press Releases

Reminder to the public: Magnet Fishing is prohibited in all historic canals administered by Parks Canada 

MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC, July 7, 2023 – Magnet fishing is a growing practice. Although perceived as a means of voluntary environmental clean-up, this activity is strictly prohibited in all historic canals administered by Parks Canada.

Under the Historic Canal Regulations (sections 3 and 11.2), the removal of any object from a historic canal is not permitted at any time without first obtaining a permit. 

At first glance, while the objective of removing objects from the canals may seem commendable, this practice poses a greater risk to the environment and to visitor safety than simply leaving the objects in place. Stirring up the bottom of the canals can not only disturb aquatic habitats but can also release contaminated sediments in sites that have a significant industrial past. Participants may be exposed to the handling of dangerous objects such as weapons or other sharp objects, as well as potentially contaminated elements.                                             

Historic canals are made up of various structures whose integrity can also be affected by the practice of this activity. In addition to bridges and footbridges, the canals include weirs and siphons, water, and electrical conduits, and potential archaeological remains that could be damaged or destroyed by the practice of magnetic fishing. Parks Canada's mandate is to protect and conserve cultural and natural resources. Consequently, such an activity cannot be authorized and anyone found in non-compliance could be subject to a fine.

Carillon Canal National Historic Site officially kicks off its 2023 boating season!

Saint-André-d'Argenteuil, Quebec, June 3, 2023 – The Carillon Canal National Historic Site is pleased to welcome boaters for the 2023 boating season. This morning, the Parks Canada team was happy to welcome the first boaters of the season!

Whether they’re looking for adventure, fun for the whole family, a chance to explore nature and history, or a break from everyday life, the historic canals administered by Parks Canada in Quebec offer countless fun and unique experiences to suit every visitor’s and boater’s needs.

Should you wish to learn more about the historic canals, please consult the Parks Canada Website and follow us on Facebook @QCCanals.

Spread the word, and enjoy the 2023 navigational season!

Launch of the Boating Season

Carillon Canal National Historic Site

SAINT-ANDRÉ-D’ARGENTEUIL, May 20, 2022 – The warm weather is finally here! It’s the perfect time to head back outside and reconnect with the places we love! Everyone is invited to take a moment this summer to visit the new facilities at the Carillon Canal National Historic Site.

The Parks Canada team was happy to welcome the first boaters of the 2022 season this morning!

Are you dreaming of taking part in this wonderful experience? Visit the Parks Canada Website to learn about the many opportunities offered by Canada’s historic canals, and register now for your lockage permit!

Spread the word, and enjoy the 2022 navigational season! parkscanada.gc.ca/canals.

Launch of the Boating Season at Carillon Canal National Historic Site 

SAINT-ANDRÉ-D’ARGENTEUIL, May 21, 2021 This morning, Parks Canada’s team was happy to welcome at the Carillon Canal National Historic Site, the first boaters of the 2021 season. 

The health and safety of visitors, boaters and employees is of the utmost importance and the Agency will follow the advice and guidance of public health authorities to determine visitor access and services. 

Transport Canada's physical distancing standards for Canadian boaters must also be respected. It is possible that boat capacity may be considerably reduced depending on the canal, and that the wait time may be increased. 

For more details about the service periods and the measures taken by the Agency to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Quebec’s historic canals, please visit the COVID-19 and your visit to the Carillon Canal National Historic Site weppage or call 1-888-773-8888 to plan your visit. 

Canal Visitors Banks 

Parks Canada is asking visitors to follow the advice of public health experts and to practice physical distancing and hygiene measures, limit public gatherings, as well as respect travel restrictions. 

Visitors should also leave no trace when they are visiting canal banks. Garbage containers has been installed to that end. If a garbage can is full, visitors should use the next one or bring their garbage with them.