Notice to Mariners
Erie Canal – Vischer Ferry
September 6, 2019
Water Levels at Vischer Ferry Dam to be Lowered Briefly for Opening of Juvenile Fish Passage September 11 & 12
ALBANY—The New York Power Authority (NYPA) will begin lowering water levels to accommodate the seasonal relocation of the fish diversion passage at the Vischer Ferry Dam beginning the night of Wednesday, September 11.
The Vischer Ferry Dam (at Lock E-7) spans the Mohawk River between Vischer Ferry, Saratoga County, and Niskayuna, Schenectady County
This work is required by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). During the period when the work will be taking place, the lower water levels may affect some marinas, including boats and docks in shallow waters. The adjusted levels should have no impact on boating within the navigation channel.
The schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, September 11
A gradual drawdown of 2 to 2.5 feet begins in the evening at the Vischer Ferry dam as water levels between Lock E-7 in Niskayuna and Lock E-8 in Scotia are lowered. The water drawdown will be completed by Thursday morning, (Elevation 210.5’ Barge Canal Datum)
Thursday, September 12,
Morning water levels will be approximately 2 to 2.5 feet below normal navigation season levels in order to accommodate the opening of the juvenile fish passage. (Elevation 210.5’ Barge Canal Datum). Water levels will start to rise by 11 a.m. Water levels at the Vischer Ferry dam will be restored to normal navigation season levels within 24-48 hours, as river flows permit. (Elevation 213.1 Barge Canal Datum)
The Power Authority and Canal Corporation have notified area marinas and recreational boaters of the pending work schedule.
Any questions regarding this work should be directed to Mario Roefaro, New York Power Authority, at 315-792-8335.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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