Last week, the Usk Ferry which crosses the Skeena River about 16 kilometres northeast of Terrace between South and North Usk was forced out of service after becoming trapped in river ice.
Trouble began on Christmas Eve, December 24th, when a sudden cold snap caused heavy ice buildup. The ice pushed the ferry downstream, shifting the north ramp out of position.
Further complications followed when the ferry’s cable broke loose. Long-time area resident George Chinn, who lived across from the Usk Ferry, explains what happened.
That ferry was in too long to my estimation then they got caught to point where it broke lose from the tension the cable broke and flew up lucky it didn’t kill anyone, there was a guy standing there along side with his wife and kid the cable flew into the back of the jeep. – George Chinn
After extensive recovery efforts, ferry worker Jeff Hewko says the vessel has now been removed from the water.
They got it out it yesterday the ferry is out, the dock on the north side is still in the ice and seem like they cant move it. – Jeff Hewko
Hewko also outlines when the ferry is expected to be back in operation.
In an email it will be ready by spring but will have to wait and see they haven’t got the dock out and see what the damages are yet. – Hewko
CFNR News reached out to Emil Anderson for comment, but did not receive a response.
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