MASSENA -- The gates at Long Sault Dam are scheduled to be opened at 7:01 a.m. on Monday to spill excess water in the St. Lawrence River.

This spill will result in rapidly changing river flows and potentially unsafe ice conditions downstream of the dam and along the South Channel of the river.

Members of the public, including those ice fishing on the river or channel, should be alert to rapidly changing ice conditions and should stay off the ice. See flier for a map detailing affected areas.

A warning siren at the Long Sault Dam will sound just prior to the start of spilling and before any flow changes through the dam. Temporary signage will be posted along various locations near the South Channel to inform the public that water is being released from the Long Sault Dam.

Members of the public should use caution on the river and keep back a minimum of 800 ft. from the Long Sault Dam spillway and Robert Moses Power Dam, both on the upstream and downstream side.

New York Power Authority officials say people should be aware of changing river conditions and strong currents.

Outflows from Lake Ontario are established on a weekly basis by the International Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Board (ILOSLRB). The Board’s action to increase outflow is being taken in response to higher than normal water levels and ice conditions on Lake Ontario and is in accordance with international treaties and the Plan 2014 agreement that dictates how flow changes occur on the St. Lawrence River. Actual outflows will depend on conditions in the St. Lawrence River. Spilling activities could take place through March 23

For more information on water flows visit: http://ijc.org/en_islrbc.

For more information on marine conditions, visit the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System website: http://www.greatlakes-seaway.com/en/.