Water Releases for Esopus Creek
Special Recreational Events
Background
Kayak race on Esopus Creek
DEC Part 670 Reservoir Releases Regulations
(Schoharie Reservoir - Shandaken Tunnel - Esopus Creek), developed pursuant to Title 8 of Article 15 of the Environmental Conservation law, were implemented in May 1977. The purpose of these regulations is to regulate the volume and rate of the flow of water from the Schoharie reservoir via the Shandaken Tunnel into the Esopus Creek to protect and enhance the recreational use of the waters in the creek while ensuring an adequate water supply for New York City.
Scheduling and Requests
Historically, the Department has received requests from a consortium of recreational groups that hold these events including American Whitewater, the Kayak and Canoe Club of New
York, the Appalachian Mountain Club, and the American Canoe Association. These groups coordinate scheduling with other planned boating events throughout the region.
Requests for diversions for special recreational events must be received in writing by April 15th of each year.
Notice
NYSDEC has received a request from the Kayak and Canoe Club of New York, on behalf of their membership and that of the Appalachian Mountain Club, the American Canoe Association and the Town of Shandaken, for the department to provide diversions for the following annual special recreational events:
| Date | Organization | Status |
|---|---|---|
| June 1-2, 2013 | KCCNY Whitewater Funfest & Slalom | Approved |
| July 20-21, 2013 | AMC Whitewater Instruction | Pending |
| Aug 31-Sept 2, 2013 | Shandaken Whitewater Weekend | Pending |
| October 5-6, 2013 | ACA Esopus Slalom | Pending |
The department is currently evaluating the request. These events are well attended and important to the economy of the area. Any approval of future events will be subject to favorable hydrologic and weather conditions.
For more information about these events, please visit The Kayak & Canoe Club of New York website found in the right hand margin of this page.
For more information about reservoir releases, please contact Brenan Tarrier at the Division of Water, (518) 402-8086.
