Notice to Mariners
Erie Canal – Town of Schuyler
July 27, 2018
Mariners are advised that the lower left (south) gate of Erie Canal Lock E-19 Frankfort that was announced as inoperable in a July 26th Notice to Mariners is operable again and so the width restriction has been lifted from 22’ to its normal 43.5’.
Mariners are also advised of a new westbound approach speed limit of 5 MPH starting one mile east of Lock E-19 and continuing to the lock. Upon approaching the red nun auxiliary buoy at Bridenbecker Creek between permanent markers G “553” and G “555” mariners are to come to a complete stop and then resume at a very low speed that results in no wake or ripple. The narrow geometry of the eastern approach channel of Lock E-19 with its vertical walls and no natural means for energy dissipation tends to exacerbate even the slightest wake and can causes the lock miter gate sheer pins to fail. This can cause delays not only for vessels transiting through the lock later in the day, but also for the vessel which created the wake.
Please continue to be cognizant of the mechanical sensitivity of this particular lock, and along with all other canal structures, always proceed slowly, methodically, and cautiously when approaching and departing any lock, lift bridge or guard gate.
Chart 14786 E-25 covering the affected area can be found at http://www.canals.ny.gov/navinfo/charts/14786e25.png
Features along the eastern portion of the Erie Canal are listed by mileage at http://www.canals.ny.gov/wwwapps/navinfo/navinfo.aspx?waterway=erieeastern
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