I was reading Syracuse.com and found this reference to the closing of the
Erie Canal:

"Erie Canal stretch closed due to high water
The New York State Canal Corp. has closed the Erie Canal from Lock E-2 in
Waterford to Lock E-22 in New London/Sylvan Beach because of high water
from recent rains.

Water is rising above some locks along the Mohawk River, the Canal Corp.
said.

Water levels are expected to crest Thursday morning, according to the
National Weather Service."

All kinds of places are washed out up there and it's STILL raining as I
type this in my hometown, Moravia, NY, on Owasco Lake.

More info from canal website:
June 29, 2006 -- Mariners are advised that Lock E-2 to E-26 on the Erie
Canal, Cayuga/Seneca Lock 1 and the entire Oswego and Champlain Canals are
closed due to high water levels and debris, until further notice.

Sometimes the canal can be closed 1-2 weeks until waters recede.
Lee Haefele
Ithaca, NY