The GNWT Department of Infrastructure has scrapped plans for dredging work along the path of the Liard River ferry, it announced in a Sept. 24 news release. 

"This project was intended to enhance navigational conditions for the M.V. Lafferty Ferry when docking at both landings," the release said. "Further evaluation has determined that dredging is not required at this time to ensure the safe operation of the ferry, and undertaking the program would not significantly alter the seasonal closure schedule. While the proposed construction and procurement costs were much higher than anticipated, the decision to cancel the project was primarily based on the limited operational impact the dredging would have."

The dredging work, which the department initially referred to as "essential," was originally expected to begin in mid-August and continue into September.

A spokesperson for the department confirmed to SA国际影视传媒 that, at this point, there are no plans for any additional dredging work in the area whatsoever. 

However, the department will "continue to review long-term planning solutions for this ferry crossing, which may include targeted and proactive dredging on an as and when-needed basis," the spokesperson said. 

The department had been accepting bids for the project before deciding to scrap it altogether. Only one contractor had submitted a bid by that point, the spokesperson said.