Dive Site Report: Petawawa Barge & Bottle Dump

Location

Village of Petawawa, Ontario, Canada

Coordinates: N/A (Upstream of the last set of rapids on the Petawawa River, near the confluence with the Ottawa River)

SITE OVERVIEW

Depth Range: 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3 meters)

Average Depth: ~6 feet (1.8 meters)

Visibility:

•Typical: ~15 feet (4.5 meters)

•Conditions: Visibility may decrease after heavy rains due to stormwater runoff.

Water Temperature:

•Summer: 20 to 28°C (68 to 82°F)

•Thermocline: None

DESCRIPTION

The Petawawa Barge & Bottle Dump site is a shallow dive in the Petawawa River, characterized by reduced currents in late summer when river levels are at their lowest. This site offers a blend of natural and historical attractions, including a mysterious wooden Barge and a fascinating bottle dump filled with early settlement artifacts.

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Petawawa Barge

•Dimensions: ~60 feet long, 20 feet wide, 6 feet deep.

•Description:

The Barge is a large wooden structure, resting upright on the riverbed and mostly filled with sand. Its accessible Deck allows divers to explore the Hull cavity and interior. Its origins remain unknown, adding a sense of intrigue to this feature.

2. Bottle Dump

•Description:

Located near the Barge, this dump site is believed to have served as a domestic waste disposal area during early settlement periods.

•Artifacts Include: Hand-blown bottles, cans, plates, and glassware.

•Historical Interest: Many bottles date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Note: Caution is advised when exploring due to the presence of sharp, broken glass.

3. Marine Life

•The site hosts abundant freshwater species, such as bass, sturgeon, and gar pike. Logs and underwater debris provide habitats for these fish, making the area vibrant and biodiverse. Divers should be mindful of fishing lures and lines among the debris.

CAUTIONS

1.River Current:

Strong currents are possible outside late summer. Avoid diving during high river levels, particularly in spring or early summer when currents are hazardous.

2.Fishing Lines:

The site is popular among anglers, and fishing lines or hooks may be present near the logs and debris.

3.Shallow Depth:

While accessible to snorkelers, care should be taken in shallow areas to avoid scrapes or collisions with submerged objects.

ACCESSIBILITY

•Entry Point:

Public access is available from within the Village of Petawawa, with a nearby boat launch offering easy water entry.

•Best Season:

Late summer (August and September) when the river is calm, and Visibility is optimal.

RESOURCES & LINKS

•Antique Bottle Dating: Antique Bottle Identification & Dating

•Local Diving Information: Ontario Diving Sites

•Google Maps Location: Petawawa River Location

CONCLUSION

The Petawawa Barge & Bottle Dump site offers a unique combination of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Its shallow depths and fascinating features make it suitable for divers and snorkelers of all experience levels. Late summer provides the safest and most enjoyable conditions for exploring this hidden gem in the Petawawa River. Whether drawn by the mysterious Barge or the artifacts at the Bottle Dump, visitors will find this site to be a rewarding adventure.

TAGS

#PetawawaBarge #BottleDump #OntarioDiving #FreshwaterDive #UnderwaterArchaeology #HistoricalDiveSite #RecreationalDiving