By Mike Davis
An unusual event happened on March 9 at the Welland Canal in Niagara Region. A rare behind-the-scenes look at the Welland Canal completely empty of water was offered. In winter, when shipping is closed on the canal, more extensive maintenance is usually done. Water can be drained out of some of the locks, as was done this last winter. People were able to explore an empty Lock 5, and to experience the true immensity of the canal. Led by Sam Pane with engineer Andrew Bator of The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, shipping enthusiasts Janey Anderson of Ship Junkies, Bill Salton of Bill Salton Photography, Michael Folsom of St. Lawrence Seaway Shipwatchers, and Jim McRae of Griffintown Media were some of those who toured the facility.
