Notice to Mariners
Erie Canal/Mohawk River – Scotia to St. Johnsville
September 16, 2018
Mariners are advised that in anticipation of possible heavy rainfall and runoff from the remnants of Hurricane Florence, the New York State Canal Corporation is making preparations to open the upper gates of the Movable Dams at Locks E-8 Scotia through E-15 Ft Plain starting Monday, September 17th, should the storm track make these measures necessary. This action would cause large (up to 4’) fluctuations in water surface levels along with swift currents, and so would force a temporary closure of this section of canal lasting up to a few days. Shoreline permittees continue to be encouraged to remove or prepare to remove vessels, docks or other seasonal structures that could be affected by extreme water level fluctuations.
Although not anticipated at this time, if necessary, water levels may be reduced even further to natural “run of river” conditions by removing the lower gates and uprights if forecasts were to worsen as the storm approaches.
Should it be necessary to implement these measures, the Canal Corporation will issue a Notice to Mariners on Monday, September 17th.
The Canal Corporation has facilities available for safe-harbor to vessels in the Waterford Flight of Locks, between Indian Castle Guard Gate and Lock E16, between Herkimer Guard Gate and Lock E18 and the Utica Harbor.
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
For updates and information, please visit Canals.NY.gov or follow us on Facebook or Twitter