When we recently asked the New York State Canal Corporation / New York Power Authority why the canal has been drained down for so long, leaving us this horrible muddy mess to look at for SIX  months or more each year, here is their answer.




Thanks for reaching out. Our western region engineer provided the following reply:
 
The last couple of years we have been fully de-watering the 17 Mile pool between E-32 and E-30 primarily to relieve the hydraulic loading on the earthen embankments.  It also allows us to perform the pump outs more easily at E-33 and E-32 (less cofferdam needs), perform structural inspections of civil infrastructure, and perform any necessary embankment repairs where de-watering is necessary.
 
I understand that there have been years in the past where we have partially de-watered the 17 Mile Pool by closing the Canal at the Genesee River, and not opening the plugs in select culverts, but fully de-watering the canal is preferred by Operations, water management, and Dam Safety.

Rebecca Hughes
Senior Director, Public Engagement
New York State Canal Corporation
           

Obviously, there is a problem here!  The dams are unsafe in their present condition. They are classified as Class C High Hazard, likely to cause loss of life or property in case of failure.

So, it stands to reason that we are looking at this mess, and the extended amount of time the canal is out of action, because the NYS Canal Corporation has been unable to bring the embankments into acceptable condition to withstand the hydraulic pressure of prolonged usage.

Who's fault is that?
Ms Agte's group the Stop The Canal Clear-cut and several politicians who propped up this misguided Facebook group!

If longer opening seasons of the NYS Canal System usage is required, then the embankments must be fixed, repaired, and trees must be gone.

It's as simple as that!