FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 5, 2006
UPDATED MEDIA ADVISORY
Oswego Canal and Additional Locks on Erie and Champlain Canals to Re-Open; Several Closures Still in Effect
The New York State Canal Corporation has announced the following additional lock openings on the Erie, Oswego and Champlain canals as of 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2006:
The Erie Canal is open from Lock E-2 in Waterford, Saratoga County to E-8 in the Town of Rotterdam, Schenectady County and from E-16 in the Town of Minden, Montgomery County through Lock E-24 in Baldwinsville, Onondaga County. Boaters are urged to travel with caution between Lock E-16 and Lock E-18 as several buoys have shifted and are currently being put back in place.
The Erie Canal remains closed from Lock E-9 in Rotterdam Junction, to Lock E-15 in Fort Plain, Montgomery County. Locks E-9 to E-15 are expected to be closed for 2-3 weeks. Due to heavy damage, Lock 10 in Cranesville, Montgomery County will likely be closed for up to 8 weeks.
The Champlain Canal is open from Lock C-7 in Fort Edward to Lock C-12 in Whitehall, Washington County.
In addition, the entire Oswego Canal is now open.
Crews are coordinating with Federal, State and local agencies through the State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) and have begun cleanup and recovery operations at facilities where possible.
The public is strongly cautioned to avoid swimming, boating or going in or near the water in sections along the Mohawk River due to dangerous conditions, unknown contaminants and heavy debris in the water.
Further updates and information are available by calling 1-800-4CANAL4 or visiting www.canals.state.ny.us and clicking on News and then Notice to Mariners.