Canal system preps for impact of Tropical Storm Debby

ROTTERDAM, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The Canal Corporation is lifting the Erie Canal's movable dam in preparation for Tropical Storm Debby's impacts. The dam between Lock E-8 in Rotterdam and Lock E-15 in Fort Plain will move at 9 a.m. on Thursday to allow for the complete lowering of the canal to winter levels.

Mariners looking for a safe harbor during the storm can do so through the Waterford flight of Locks E-2 through E-6 or Lock E-16 in Saint Johnsville. Anyone with trailer boats should remove them from the canal as soon as possible, and the Canal Corporation extended its hours on Wednesday to 8 p.m. so boaters could reach safe harbor.

Moving the dam allows the Mohawk River to absorb the tropical storm's rainfall. The water levels in Delta, North Lake, and Madison Reservoirs are also being adjusted for storm runoff.