Unexploded Shell Discovered Near Nicolet Wharf
Canadian Armed Forces prepare to neutralize a historical military projectile found in Quebec.
1Discovery at Port-Saint-François
An unexploded shell was discovered near the Port-Saint-François wharf in Nicolet, Quebec. Local authorities immediately established a security perimeter to protect the public. The object was found embedded in the riverbank soil. Officials have requested that citizens strictly respect the cordoned area while awaiting professional military assistance for the removal process.
2Tidal Challenges Delay Intervention
The shell is currently submerged due to rising tides in the Saint-Laurent River. City officials confirmed that the site remains under continuous surveillance while waiting for water levels to recede. The Canadian Armed Forces are scheduled to arrive on Saturday afternoon to assess the device and determine the safest neutralization method.
3No Immediate Evacuation Required
The City of Nicolet has officially stated that the situation is currently under control. Unlike previous incidents in the region, no evacuations have been ordered for local residents at this time. Authorities continue to monitor the site closely to ensure public safety remains intact until the military team completes their specialized operation.
4Recurring Historical Safety Issues
This discovery follows a similar incident in July when another shell was found near the Nicolet footbridge. That previous event required the evacuation of approximately 130 residences and a temporary halt to maritime traffic on the Saint-Laurent. The military successfully neutralized that device through a controlled explosion, highlighting the ongoing risks in area.
5Legacy of Military Testing
The presence of these projectiles stems from historical activities at the Nicolet ammunition testing center. Between 1952 and 1999, the Department of National Defence conducted regular firing trials into Lake Saint-Pierre. While the site is no longer active, the legacy of these tests continues to pose periodic safety challenges for the local community.
6Scale of Submerged Munitions
Federal estimates suggest that approximately 300,000 projectiles of various calibers remain at the bottom of Lake Saint-Pierre. The Department of National Defence clarifies that only a small fraction of these historical items still contain active explosives. Despite this, the sheer volume of debris necessitates caution whenever new items are unearthed by tides.
7Environmental and Safety Context
Lake Saint-Pierre, where these munitions are located, holds significant ecological status as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The environmental sensitivity of the area complicates recovery efforts for submerged ordnance. Authorities must balance the need for public safety with the protection of the delicate aquatic ecosystem during any required military intervention operations.
8Future Monitoring and Outlook
The recurring nature of these discoveries underscores the long-term impact of mid-century military testing on modern infrastructure. While the current shell is being managed, the potential for future finds remains high due to shifting riverbeds. Ongoing cooperation between municipal authorities and the Canadian Armed Forces remains essential for maintaining regional safety standards.
Original article: La Presse — Unexploded Shell Discovered Near Nicolet Wharf