The New York State Canal Corporation has announced important updates regarding navigation on the Canal System, effective Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Several key sections will remain closed due to high water levels and ongoing infrastructure repairs, while others have reopened.

Erie Canal Status:

Closed:

Lock E-2 (Waterford) to Lock E-16 (St. Johnsville)

Lock E-16 (St. Johnsville) to Lock E-17 (Little Falls)

Lock E-24 (Baldwinsville) to Lock E-25 (Mays Point)

Open:

Lock E-17 (Little Falls) through Lock E-22 (New London) to Sylvan Beach

Lock E-23 (Brewerton)

Lock E-26 (Clyde) through Locks E-34/35 (Lockport) to the Tonawandas

Repairs are still underway at the Rocky Rift movable dam and the earthen embankment west of Lock E-16, delaying the reopening between Locks E-16 and E-17. This section will remain closed until further notice.

Other Canal Routes:

Champlain Canal – Closed due to high and unsafe water levels

Oswego Canal – Closed due to high and unsafe water levels

Cayuga–Seneca Canal – Closed due to high and unsafe water levels

The Eastern Erie Canal (Locks E-2 to E-16) and Champlain Canal are expected to reopen this weekend, pending water level improvements. The Canal Corporation will provide exact reopening times in the coming days.

Navigation Safety and Reminders:

Boaters navigating open sections are urged to exercise caution due to:

Floating debris from recent heavy rainfall

Buoys (Aids to Navigation) possibly being off station

All boaters should proceed at "No Wake" speed and refer to the Canal Corporation’s Notice to Mariners to stay informed and plan accordingly. Ensuring availability of dock space and amenities in operating areas is also advised.

For a detailed overview of open and closed canal sections, refer to the updated system map here: [UpdatedClosure.pdf]

The Albany Yacht Club is pleased to announce the completion of our new patio cover—a long-awaited improvement that is already transforming the waterfront experience for our members and guests. The sleek, sturdy cover was recently installed and now stretches across the main outdoor seating area, providing much-needed shade and shelter for those who want to enjoy the marina views in comfort.

All tables have been set up beneath the new structure, creating a welcoming and functional space for casual gatherings, morning coffee, and post-sail conversations. The covered patio is now the ideal spot for members to relax, dine, or host informal events without concern for rain or strong sun.

The addition enhances the overall charm of the club's outdoor area, offering a comfortable place to enjoy river breezes, watch the sunset over the Hudson, or simply take in the activity on the docks.

This improvement marks the latest in a series of ongoing efforts to update and maintain our facilities to the highest standards. We encourage all members to stop by, take advantage of the new space, and enjoy the season in style.

We look forward to seeing you under the new cover soon!

The New York State Canal Corporation announced that the New York State Canal system will open in phases beginning Friday, May 16th due to severe weather that has necessitated a delay in the opening schedule for the Canal system. Specifically, significant rainfall has created high flows and unsafe conditions along the Eastern and Central Erie Canal, Champlain Canal, and Oswego Canal.

The opening schedule is as follows –

Friday, May 16th – Erie Canal Lock E-28A (Lyons) will be operational through Locks E-34/35 (Lockport)

Boaters should be aware of floating debris generated by recent heavy rainfall and proceed with caution, at a "No Wake" speed, as some debris may be hard to see. Some buoys (Aids to Navigation) may be off station and are being relocated by Canal forces.

As conditions safely permit, additional openings of the Canal system will be announced in subsequent Notice to Mariners.

The Canal Corporation appreciates the patience of mariners and the public while crews work to prepare the waterway for navigation once conditions are safe.

Upon opening, all locks and lift bridges will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily with some locks and lift bridges operating until 9:00 p.m. Mariners are advised to check the Canal Corporation’s Notice to Mariners for the latest information.

There are no tolls or fees for recreational use of the Canal system this year.

As part of the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial commemoration, the Canal Corporation is extending this year’s navigation season. The Canal system will remain open for both recreational and commercial vessels until Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:00 pm.

New York State Canal System to Open May 16 for 2025 Navigation Season with Updated Schedule and Extended Hours at Select Locations

The New York State Canal Corporation has announced the scheduled opening of the entire New York State Canal System on Friday, May 16, 2025, marking the beginning of the 2025 navigation season. This historic network of waterways will remain open until November 3, 2025, offering recreational boaters toll-free access for the duration of the season.

Standard Operating Hours

Most locks and lift bridges along the Canal system will operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. These hours are in effect for the entire navigation season, from opening day through the scheduled close on November 3.

Extended Hours at Select Structures

To support peak seasonal traffic, the following locks and lift bridges will operate with extended hours—8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.—from May 16 through September 10, 2025:

• Erie Canal:

• • Lock E-8 (Rotterdam)

  • Lock E-23 (Brewerton)

  • Lock E-24 (Baldwinsville)

  • Lock E-32 (Pittsford)

  • Lock E-33 (Henrietta)

  • Lock E-34/35 (Lockport)

  • Main Street Lift Bridge (Fairport)

  • Spencerport Lift Bridge

  • Adams Basin Lift Bridge

  • Park Avenue Lift Bridge (Brockport)

  • Main Street Lift Bridge (Brockport)

  • Holley Lift Bridge

  • Hulberton Lift Bridge

  • Ingersoll Street Lift Bridge (Albion)

  • Main Street Lift Bridge (Albion)

  • Eagle Harbor Lift Bridge

  • Knowlesville Lift Bridge

  • Medina Lift Bridge

  • Middleport Lift Bridge

  • Gasport Lift Bridge

  • Exchange Street Lift Bridge (Lockport)

• Oswego Canal:

• • Lock O-1 (Phoenix)

  • Lock O-2 (Fulton)

  • Lock O-3 (Fulton)

  • Lock O-8 (Oswego)

• Cayuga-Seneca Canal:

  • Lock CS-1 (Cayuga)

  • Lock CS-2/3 (Seneca Falls)

  • Lock CS-4 (Waterloo)

Lockage Policies Near Closing Times

To ensure smooth passage, the Canal Corporation has established the following guidance for mariners approaching lock structures near closing time:

• Seneca Falls (CS-2/3) and Lockport (E-34/35): Vessels arriving prior to the scheduled 9:00 p.m. closing time will be passed through both chambers if needed.

• Lock E-21 (New London) and Lock E-22 (Verona): Vessels arriving westbound at E-21 or eastbound at E-22 before closing will be locked through both.

• Locks C-3 and C-4 on the Champlain Canal (Mechanicville and Stillwater): Vessels arriving northbound or southbound before closing will be allowed full passage.

• Waterford Flight: All vessels must arrive by 5:00 p.m. daily to be admitted through the full sequence of locks.

Additional Notes and Staffing Updates

Due to ongoing recruitment for seasonal lock and bridge operators, hours of operation may differ from previous years at some locations. The Canal Corporation continues to seek qualified staff and will adjust hours as needed. Mariners are strongly encouraged to consult the Notice to Mariners notification program for real-time updates.

As an example, extended hours at Waterford Flight and Lock E-7 (Niskayuna) are contingent upon sufficient staffing and may be announced later in the season.

Stay Informed

Boaters should monitor updates and plan accordingly. For real-time alerts and additional information, visit the official New York State Canal Corporation website: www.canals.ny.gov.

This season promises another exciting opportunity to experience one of New York's most scenic and historic waterways—make sure you’re ready to navigate!

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced a temporary adjustment to the operating schedule for the Troy Lock during the 2025 navigation season. The lock will be open from May 1 through November 30, 2025, with revised daily hours from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, effective May 1. While these reduced hours are temporary, they are expected to remain in place for most of the season. Boaters are advised to plan accordingly. The Corps appreciates the public’s understanding as they work through unforeseen circumstances.

This Earth Day, the BoatUS Foundation is calling on boaters nationwide to do their part in protecting our waterways with three simple, impactful actions. First and foremost: have a trash plan. The most effective way to help the environment is to keep litter out of the water. Secure a trash container on board with a tight-fitting lid to keep snack wrappers, bottles, and fishing line from flying overboard. Add a clearly marked sign for guests to ensure proper use. For anglers, a separate container for used fishing line makes recycling ashore even easier and more effective.

Next, avoid fuel spills by adopting safe refueling habits. Know your tank capacity, turn off all electronics, and listen closely to the sound of the fuel entering the tank to avoid overfilling. Use absorbent pads or donuts to catch drips, and dispose of them properly. Marinas can also play a role by having staff complete the free BoatUS Foundation course, Spill Prevention for Marina Staff. Lastly, as the boating season kicks off, inquire about shrink wrap recycling in your area. While not all regions offer it, increasing demand can lead to new programs that turn this bulky waste into useful products like composite decking. By speaking up and taking action, boaters can make a big difference for Mother Earth—on April 22 and every day on the water.

Beginning in 2025, New York State will require all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, to possess a valid boating safety certificate. A certificate issued by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is recognized as meeting this requirement.

In response, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary of Albany, NY, will be offering a certified Boating Safety Course at the Albany Yacht Club later this month.

Course Details:

Dates:

Tuesday, April 22nd, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Thursday, April 24th, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Location: Albany Yacht Club, 75 Broadway, Rensselaer, NY

Cost: $25 (includes an ID card issued upon successful completion)

This course provides a convenient opportunity for local boaters to meet the new state requirements and enhance their knowledge of boating safety. Early registration is recommended as space may be limited.

As the chill of winter fades and the air grows warmer, the arrival of spring brings with it the familiar rituals of renewal and preparation. Spring flowers bloom in vibrant colors, their petals swaying gently in the breeze, heralding the changing season. Along the riverbanks, another tradition unfolds—a rite of spring marked by the clatter of tools and the scent of fresh wood. Dock repairs are underway, a timeless dance of sanding, hammering, and sealing as we ready our docks to be placed back on the river. It’s a season of restoration and anticipation, where nature and human effort intertwine, both striving to make things whole again.

As winter loosens its grip on the Hudson Valley, boaters and anglers alike have something to look forward to—less than a month remains before the docks at the Albany Yacht Club make their way back onto the river. This annual milestone signals the official start of the boating season, bringing new energy to the waterfront.

For fishermen, this also means one thing: striper season is right around the corner. The striped bass migration up the Hudson River is a highly anticipated event, drawing anglers eager to land one of these prized fish. As the water temperatures rise, the stripers will follow their instincts, moving upriver from the Atlantic to spawn.

Whether you're a seasoned boater preparing to launch or an angler dusting off your gear, now is the time to get ready. The next few weeks will be filled with anticipation as the river comes to life once again.

Tight lines and smooth sailing—spring is almost here!

Regular members in good standing are welcome to submit their dockage application. We are going to use the AYC website to streamline the application process this year.

The new process is as follows:

Log on to the AYC website and go to – MEMBERS – DOCK APPLICATION or click HERE

Fill out the online Dock Application form and hit submit to send your request.

If you have any problems logging into your website account, please get in touch with the AYC webmaster at radek.cfi@gmail.com

Once your application is reviewed, you will receive, via email, an invoice for the amount due. You may remit payment by Mail or bring the Invoice along with your payment and insurance information to the Club. Place your dockage info and payment in the mail slot at the office door.

Mailing address: Albany Yacht Club,PO Box 293, Rensselaer, NY 12144

Important points to remember.

• 2025 dues must be paid, and members must be in good standing prior to the dockage application being processed.
• Payment and insurance documents naming the as AYC “Additional Insured” in the amount of $100,000 are due by February 28th to avoid late fees.
• If you indicate that you are bringing your boat in during Striper season (April to the week prior to Memorial Day, May 24,2025) and are a No-Show you will be charged $100.00 per week that the No-Show occurs.
• Striper dockage is an important revenue source for the club and we are taking No-Shows seriously.
• Striper season dockage officially ends May 24th this year.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:

Commodore Mike at ml-bfs@hotmail.com