NEW YORK STATE CANAL SYSTEM

September 4, 2009

Mariners are advised that the Waterford Canal Harbor will be restricted to vessel traffic from 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 10^th to 7:00 AM on Monday, September 14^th for the Waterford Tugboat Roundup. This area of the Canal System will remain open to through-traffic. Through commercial traffic requiring clearance in this area must call the New York State Canal Corporation at (518) 471-5016, at least 24 hours in advance.

During this time, docking for commercial and pleasure craft will be available between Locks E-2 and E-4 in the Waterford Flight. Docking with electrical service will be available at the Lock E-3 upper approach wall, within walking distance of the Village of Waterford.  Docking in the main harbor area below Lock E-2 will be restricted to event vessels.

Additionally, a 50-yard security zone around participating vessels will be in effect during the Albany to Waterford tugboat parade from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Friday, September 11^th. A 50-yard security zone will be in effect around the fireworks staging barge located in Waterford Harbor on Saturday, September 12^th.

For updates and information on Canal conditions please call 1-800-4CANAL4 or visit www.nyscanals.gov.  Additionally, mariners may sign up for automatic e-mail and text message alerts through the 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