Location:
Village of Petawawa, Ontario, Canada
Coordinates: N/A (Located upstream of the last set of rapids on the Petawawa River, near the Ottawa River confluence)
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 can 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 is a dive site featuring two unique attractions situated close together in a sharp bend of the Petawawa River. The location is characterized by a reduced current, especially during the late summer when the river is at its lowest levels, making it an ideal time for exploration.
Highlights:
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Petawawa Barge:
The primary feature is a large wooden structure resembling a barge. The barge measures approximately 60 feet in length, 20 feet in width, and 6 feet in depth. The barge is mostly filled with sand and rests upright on the riverbed. Its deck is easily accessible in shallow water, allowing divers to peer into the hull cavity and interior. The origins and original purpose of the barge remain unknown, adding an element of mystery to the dive. -
Bottle Dump:
Nearby is the Bottle Dump, a site believed to be an old domestic waste disposal area. The dump is filled with historical artifacts such as bottles, cans, plates, and glassware. Many of the bottles are hand-blown and date back to early settlement periods, providing an intriguing glimpse into the past. Divers exploring the Bottle Dump should exercise caution due to the presence of broken glass. -
Marine Life:
The site is teeming with freshwater fish, including bass, sturgeon, and gar pike. The logs and other underwater structures provide excellent habitats for marine life, making this a popular fishing spot. Divers may encounter fishing lures and lines among the debris, so caution is advised.
Cautions:
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River Current:
The Petawawa River’s current can be strong, particularly outside of the late summer months. The current poses a hazard, especially given the site’s proximity to the rapids downstream. It is recommended to dive only when the river is at its lowest levels, typically in August or September. -
Shallow Depth:
While the shallow depths make the site accessible to snorkelers, the low water levels can still pose risks, particularly if the current is strong. -
Fishing Lines:
The site’s popularity among anglers means that divers should be vigilant for fishing lines and hooks that could be draped across the logs and other underwater structures.
Accessibility:
The site is easily accessible from within the village of Petawawa, with public access to the river. A nearby boat launch provides convenient entry to the water, making it easy for divers to reach the site.
Conclusion:
The Petawawa Barge & Bottle Dump site offers a unique and historically rich dive experience in the heart of Ontario. With its shallow depths, clear water, and fascinating underwater features, this site is suitable for both divers and snorkelers. The site is best visited during the late summer when the river is calm, providing safe and enjoyable conditions for exploration. Whether you’re interested in the mysterious origins of the barge or the historical artifacts at the Bottle Dump, this dive site has something to offer every underwater enthusiast.
Resources & Links
- Antique Bottle Information: Antique Bottle Dating
- Local Diving Information: Ontario Diving Sites
- Google Maps Location: Petawawa River Location
This site is a hidden gem for those interested in history and underwater exploration. While the current can pose challenges, the rewards of discovering the Petawawa Barge and the Bottle Dump make it well worth the effort.
