Mariners are advised that water levels in the Erie Canal between Lock E-30 (Macedon) and Locks E-34/35 (Lockport) will be approximately one foot lower than previous years as the Canal Corporation continues to monitor more than 200 known seeps along the canal’s earthen embankments.
Levels may vary slightly depending on the location. The reduced water levels should not impact vessels transiting the canal within the navigation channel but may impact some docks and boat launches.
In addition, the Glens Falls Feeder Canal will be approximately two feet lower than previous years as seeps continue to be monitored there as well.
Additional adjustments to the water levels, if required, will be communicated in a timely manner.
The Canal Corporation continuously monitors and inspects these earthen dams on foot via daily monitoring with our staff, as well as using advanced technologies like drones and thermal imaging.
The Canal Corporation appreciates the public’s patience during this time and encourages all Canal users and stakeholders to register to receive updates through the “Notice to Mariners” notification program.
Photo of Erie Canal near Lockport provided.
Folks, lowering Erie Canal water is about public safety, period.
It serves to decrease the hydraulic pressure on these aging 100 year old canal Navigation Dams, and hopefully slow the seepage rate of those 200 leaks & seeps being monitored.
You can read about the truth regarding Erie Canal safety in NY here, and even more dam maintenance work that requires lower water levels.
https://ecna.createaforum.com/notices-from-the-canal-authority/another-embankment-dam-gets-attention/