NEW YORK STATE CANAL SYSTEM

Erie Canal Update
Lock E-18

May 17, 2007

Mariners are advised that embankment repairs are underway west of Lock E-18 in German Flatts. The canal between Guard Gate # 5 in Herkimer and Lock E-18 will remain closed until repairs are completed and normal pool levels are restored, tentatively the middle of next week.

To assist boaters who are waiting to move through this area, escorted passage will be allowed on Saturday, May 19th at 9 AM. The repair schedule will be altered to allow boaters to transit the area. Boaters will be required to transit this area no faster than the speed of the escorting vessel. There will only be one escorted passage in each direction.

Boaters wishing to take advantage of this passage are asked to call the adjacent locks by 5 PM on Friday May 18th, to receive further information. Boaters traveling in a westerly direction should call Lock E-18 at 315- 823-2419 and boaters traveling in an easterly direction are asked to call Lock E-19 at 315-733-5041.

For updates and information, mariners are advised to monitor 1-800-4CANAL4 and www.nyscanals.gov. Additionally, mariners may sign up for automatic email and text message alerts through the new Canal TRANSalert service. This service is offered to notify mariners of major incidents and emergencies that may affect navigation on the New York State Canal System. To register for this service, please visit www.nyscanals.gov/tas/.

Carmella R. Mantello Director, New York State Canal Corporation