The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, along with the New York State Canal Corporation, has launched the NYS Canalway Water Trail Stewardship Program to help ensure the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Champlain, and Oswego canals are welcoming and safe for paddlers.
Individuals, families, groups, and organizations are invited to adopt a section of the 450-mile NYS Canalway Water Trail from May through October.
Volunteer stewards will perform light maintenance at launch sites, observe and report issues, and act as friendly ambassadors for paddlers using the waterway. Volunteers will steward a section of approximately 10 miles of the Water Trail, contributing about 4-6 hours a month. All volunteers will complete a virtual orientation, be provided t-shirts and supplies, and have access to additional training. All volunteers must be at least 12 years old (with adult supervision).
The canal system opens for the season on May 21st.
The NYS Canalway Water Trail is comprised of 450 miles of canals and interconnected lakes and rivers. It includes the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Oswego, and Champlain canals. With more than 140 access sites, numerous paddling rentals locations, and several boater-biker-hiker facilities that allow overnight camping at canal parks. A comprehensive Guidebook and Map Set for paddlers is available at Erie Canalway’s website.
For more information or to sign up to volunteer, visit the Erie Canalway website or contact program manager Mona Caron at mona_caron@partner.nps.gov or (518) 237-7000 x204.
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