Lock operators open the Pendleton Guard Gate late last week to allow water in the winterized sections of the Erie Canal to rise gradually to summer levels. According to New York State Canal Corporation, the western region of the canal is refilled at the rate of about 1 foot per day and will be open for pre-navigation season permit holders on May 10. The navigation season opens May 19 and closes Oct. 11 this year.
Erie Canal rises up
