NEWS RELEASE

Tidal bore season begins

(Moncton – March 29, 2006) – The season for viewing the Petitcodiac River Tidal Bore begins this week, as tides influenced by the full and new moon will combine to create some of the best conditions in the year to enjoy our once famous natural attraction.

The Petitcodiac River’s claim to fame is its tidal bore, forming twice a day as the tides from the Bay of Fundy push up river towards Moncton. A bore occurs in areas of the world where tidal amplitudes are strong (at least 6 m), as is the case with the Bay of Fundy region. The phenomenon is created and influenced by a number of factors including river slope, downstream flow, the moon cycle, seasons and winds.

Depending on water flow conditions, the wave in the Petitcodiac River could reach between 2 and 3 feet this week (formerly between 5 and 7 feet), and speeds reaching 13 km/hour.

“The combination of high tides and the fact that the river channel is relatively clear of silt this time of year as result of the freshet, makes it ideal for viewing the Bore,” says Riverkeeper Daniel LeBlanc. The best conditions to view the Petitcodiac River Tidal Bore are expected to be in place this week (March 30, 31st and April 1st) and in mid-April (13, 14, 15 and 16),” adds LeBlanc.

The arrival of spring also coincides with the upstream migration of fish in the Petitcodiac River. During the next few weeks, we should be able to notice the upstream migration of what remains of the smelt and gaspereau population, followed at times by marine mammals. “It’s an ideal time to watch the river”, he says.

The schedule for the spring tidal bores is:

New moon: March 30 (10:37), 31 (11:36) and April 1st (12:16)
Full moon: April 13 (11:06), 14 (11:39), 15 (12:12) and 16 (12:48)

The Riverkeeper reminds viewers that it is best to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled arrival time. The public can also learn more about tidal bores and the Petitcodiac’s marine species by visiting the Riverkeeper web site at www.petitcodiac.org.

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INFORMATION :

Daniel LeBlanc
Tel. (506) 388-5337
www.petitcodiac.org