FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 6, 2006
CANAL CORPORATION ANNOUNCES RE-OPENING OF CHAMPLAIN CANAL
More Than 90 Percent of System Now Open, Erie Canal from E-9 to E-15 Remains
Closed
The New York State Canal Corporation today announced the re-opening of the entire Champlain Canal from Waterford, Saratoga County to Whitehall, Washington County. Nearly 90 percent of the Canal System is now open for navigation.
“Today’s opening of the Champlain Canal was made possible by a combination of good weather and the hard work and efforts of our many Canal employees,” Canal Corporation Director Carmella R. Mantello said. “The severity of the recent flooding and its impact on the Canal System has been unprecedented, but we understand how important the canal is to the businesses and communities that line its shores and we are continuing to work around the clock to reopen the remaining section of the Erie Canal as quickly as possible.”
Water levels on the upper Hudson River and Champlain Canal have dropped approximately one foot since yesterday due to reduced flows from the Great Sacandaga Reservoir.
Portions of the Erie Canal along the Mohawk River from Lock E-9 in Rotterdam Junction to E-15 in Fort Plain, Montgomery County will likely remain closed for two to three weeks. Due to heavy damage, Lock 10 in Cranesville, Montgomery County will likely be closed for up to eight weeks.
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.
Boaters are urged to travel with caution and be aware of reduced bridge height clearances and floating debris.
The public is advised to continue to exercise considerable caution with regard to recreation in waters that have been affected by the recent heavy flooding. Concerns include high flows, debris, diminished water clarity and elevated bacteria levels.
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.