Water Releases for Esopus Creek
Special Recreational Events
Kayak race on Esopus Creek
Historically, DEC has received requests from a consortium of recreational groups that hold paddling 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.
DEC Part 670 Reservoir Releases Regulations (leaves DEC website) (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
DEC does not endorse, nor is DEC affiliated with, the recreational events. DEC does not make any representations about the safety of the recreational events or the waters in which they are held. Participants in the recreational events assume any and all risks, and are responsible for complying with all applicable law and regulations in the area.
Requests for diversions for special recreational events must be received in writing by April 15 of each year.
Notice
DEC 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, American Whitewater, The Adirondack Mountain Club, and the Town of Shandaken, for DEC to provide diversions for the following annual special recreational events:
| Date | Organization | Status |
|---|---|---|
| May 6-7, 2023 | AMC/KCCNY/ADK Whitewater Weekend | Declined |
| July 8-9, 2023 | AMC/KCCNY/ADK Whitewater Weekend | Pending |
| Sept. 2-4, 2023 | Shandaken Whitewater Weekend | Pending |
| Sept. 30 - Oct. 1, 2023 | ACA Esopus Slalom - New England Slalom Series | Pending |
For more information about these events please visit the websites of The Kayak and Canoe Club of New York or the New England Slalom Series found on the right of this page.
