Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) attended the New York State Canal Corporation’s Upstate Flood Mitigation Task Force meeting at Mohawk Valley Community College on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Our state’s canal system includes four historic canals, including the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga—Seneca. This system spans more than 524 miles, linking the Hudson River with the Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes and Lake Champlain. This intricate system forms the backbone of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Smullen is proud to partner with the New York State Canal Corporation’s Task Force and support the hundreds of unique communities whose waterfronts, businesses, tourism, culture and economy are all connected to the canal system.

“Tuesday’s meeting with the New York State Canal Corporation’s Upstate Flood Mitigation Task Force was very informative,” said Smullen. “As past Executive Director of the Hudson River Black River Regulating District (HRBRRD), which is a New York state public benefit corporation responsible for flood control and mitigation, I am committed to continuing to preserve our canal system and the communities surrounding it.

“It’s important we stay up to date on resources and emergency services at our disposal in upstate regions to keep communities near the canal system safe and protected from imminent weather and flooding. Having the reserves to repair equipment and roadways and also maintain personnel to respond to flooding emergencies is critical. I will continue to support our rural communities and ensure they receive proper funding to offset the cost of flood mitigation—one less thing for residents and businesses to worry about so they can thrive while enjoying the scenery, recreation and clean water the New York state canal system provides.”