LITTLE FALLS CANAL

• USLFJ
• Latitude: 43.035
• Longitude: -74.8644
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Little Falls Canal is part of the extensive canal system in the northeastern United States. Historically, it is connected to the Erie Canal, which plays a significant role in the inland waterway network. Here is a detailed description and specification:

Location:

• State: New York
• City: Little Falls
• Coordinates: Approximately 43.0439°N, 74.8540°W

History and Importance:

• The Little Falls Canal is an integral segment of the Erie Canal, designed to facilitate navigation through what was originally a challenging section due to the presence of rapids and rocky formations.
• The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, revolutionized trade in the United States by providing a direct waterway from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes.

Specifications:

• Type of Canal: Inland waterway.
• Lock System: The Little Falls Lock (Lock E-17) is one of the significant locks in the canal. It has the highest lift of any lock on the Erie Canal system.
  • Lift: Approximately 40.5 feet (12.3 meters).
  • Length: Roughly 300 feet (91.44 meters).
  • Width: 43.5 feet (13.26 meters).
• Vessel Limitations: The dimensions of the locks limit the size of vessels that can navigate through the canal.
  • Maximum Vessel Length: About 300 feet.
  • Maximum Vessel Width: About 43.5 feet.
  • Maximum Draft Depth: Approximately 9 feet (2.74 meters).

Navigation and Operations:

• Seasonal Operation: Generally operates from May through November, weather permitting.
• Operating Hours: Vary throughout the boating season; typical hours are from dawn to dusk.
• Traffic: The canal supports both commercial and recreational boat traffic.
• Speed Limits: Navigational speed limits are enforced to ensure safety and protect canal infrastructure.

Facilities and Services:

• Docking: Various docking facilities are available for both transient and long-term docking.
• Fuel Services: Limited fuel services may be available, usually in nearby marinas.
• Maintenance: Facilities nearby provide maintenance and repair services for vessels in transit.
• Amenities: Little Falls and the surrounding areas offer restaurants, shops, and historic sites for visitors.

Environmental Considerations:

• Water Quality Management: Efforts are made to maintain water quality and manage invasive species to preserve the canal’s ecosystem.
• Historic Preservation: Many sections of the Erie Canal, including the Little Falls segment, are part of historic preservation efforts due to their cultural and historical significance.

Connectivity:

• Integration with Other Waterways: The canal connects with major water bodies such as the Mohawk River, which further connects to the Hudson River, facilitating extensive inland water routes.

Significance:

• Economic Impact: The canal continues to have a legacy of enhancing local economies by providing trade routes and promoting tourism.
• Recreation: The canal system is popular for recreational boating, fishing, and waterside activities, offering a scenic waterway experience.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, particularly regarding daily operations and any potential restrictions, it is advisable to contact local canal authorities or visit their official websites.