BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- The Lake Erie-Niagara River ice boom will have to be removed gradually due to damage sustained over the winter and heavy ice buildup, according to the International Niagara Board of Control. Heavy ice over the winter created openings in the boom and ice is already being re leased. The Maid-of-the-Mist pool also experienced a great ice buildup. Ice sheets flow over Buffalo’s ice boom into Niagara River Despite an area of less than 250 square miles of ice on Lake Erie east of Long Point, Ontario and Erie, Pennsylvania, the New York Power Authority says they will open the boom in a controlled manner to avoid jamming and promote safe working conditions. The International Niagara Board of Control did not say what day the removal process will begin. Latest Local News Crowds build at Buffalo Niagara International Airport for spring break Ice boom set to be removed gradually due to winter damage Hamburg man admits to killing sister after allegedly attacking 91-year-old mother Depew Union Free School District announces new superintendent Legislation proposed to rehire fired NYS correction officers Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. ...read more read less