Notice

09/04/2026 01:19 PM

Notice to Mariners

Eastern Erie Canal – Vischer Ferry

September 4, 2026

 

Opening of Vischer Ferry Juvenile Fish Passage September 8 & 9

  

The New York Power Authority, working with BIDCO Marine Group, will be closing the adult fish

passage and opening the juvenile fish passage at the Vischer Ferry Project on Wednesday,

September 9, 2026. This activity will cause fluctuations in water levels which may affect marinas,

boats and docks.

The schedule is as follows:

Tuesday, September 8 Overnight: A gradual drawdown begins at Vischer Ferry as water

levels between Mohawk River / Erie Canal Lock E7 and E8 are

lowered. Water levels will drop between 6 inches and 2 feet,

depending on river flows at the time. The water drawdown is

completed by Wednesday morning. (Elevation 211.0’ Barge Canal

Datum)

Wednesday, September 9 Morning: Water levels at Vischer Ferry drop approx. 6 inches. The

adult fish passage will be closed, and the juvenile fish passage will

be opened on Dam F. Water levels will begin to rise by 12:00 PM.

(Elevation 210.5’ BCD)

Water levels at Vischer Ferry will return to normal navigation

season levels in approximately 24 to 48 hours, depending on the

river flow. (Elevation 213.3’ BCD)

Barring any complications or inclement weather, work will be completed by Wednesday,

September 9, 2026. Unforeseen precipitation and high-water conditions may delay this schedule or decrease the time to refill. Should you have any questions, please contact me Johnathan Williams at 518-287-6340.

 

*BCD refers to Barge Canal Datum

 

The Canal Corporation urges all users and stakeholders to register to receive updates through the Notice to Mariners notification program by clicking here.

For general news, please visit www.canals.ny.gov or follow the Canal Corporation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

To report an issue or incident along the Canal system, please call the Canal Corporation’s Emergency Call Center at 833-538-1042.