Conditions permitting, all portions of the New York State Canal system are scheduled to open on Friday, May 17, 2024.
This year marks the 200th consecutive season of navigation along New York’s Canals.
The 200th anniversary of the original Erie Canal’s completion and opening will be commemorated as the Erie Canal’s bicentennial in 2025.
There are no tolls or fees for recreational use of the Canal system this year.
Water levels in the Erie Canal between Lock E-30 (Macedon) and Locks E-34/35 (Lockport) will be consistent with levels maintained during the 2022 and 2023 navigation seasons – approximately one foot lower than historic levels.
The adjustment in water levels is directly attributable to the Canal Corporation’s efforts to monitor and manage known seeps along the canal’s earthen embankments.
Levels may vary slightly depending on the location. The reduced water levels should not impact vessels transiting the canal within the navigation channel but may impact some docks and boat launches.
In addition, water levels in the Glens Falls Feeder Canal will be consistent with levels maintained throughout 2023 – approximately two feet lower than historic levels as seeps continue to be monitored there as well.
The Canal system is scheduled to close to navigation on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
For general canal navigation news visit www.canals.ny.gov.
To report an issue or incident along the Canal system, please call the Canal Corporation’s Emergency Call Center at (833) 538-1042.
