May 09, 2013 — While often seen as an economic lifeline of another era, New York's canals are poised to have a big year for moving freight; almost two centuries after goods were first transported on the upstate New York waterway.

As the state's network of canals opens this week for its 189th official season, commercial traffic along the waterways is expected to be at a two-decade high.

The Canal Corporation, the agency that oversees the 524 miles of canals, expects more than 100,000 tons of freight to move through upstate by way of the Erie Canal and its other canals.  Go to full article

Ottawa, ON, Feb 07, 2011 — Winterlude opened in Canada's capitol over the weekend. The annual celebration of winter in Ottawa continues for the next couple of weeks with music, food, art and skating on the world's largest skating rink -- the Rideau Canal. The Skateway opened for it's 41st season in early January.

Skating on the frozen waterway is such an eagerly-awaited event that Lucy Martin got a happy surprise when she easily found good street parking on opening weekend. That made her wonder how residents feel about living in the impact zone?

The first one she encountered said he doesn't really mind.

Oliver Bayer is today's Heard Up North.  Go to full article

Ottawa, ON, Jan 14, 2010 — Today's the day for those eager to enjoy Ottawa's Rideau Canal skateway. The 40th season of the highly popular destination opened this morning. Lucy Martin has more.  Go to full article

Jan 10, 2006 — The "World's Longest Skateway" opened Saturday under grey skies and light flurries. Ice conditions were "fair" to "good", and crowds of walkers, joggers and skaters turned out to enjoy various canal attractions. Ottawa's Rideau Canal is a favorite winter activity for residents and visitors alike. Lucy Martin spoke to skaters, and a vendor who explained a traditional canalside snack.  Go to full article

Oct 21, 2003 — State Comptroller Alan Hevesi says his office was deliberately misled by the state's Canal Corporation when it approved a contract giving exclusive development rights along the Erie Canal to a Buffalo real estate developer for $30,000. Hevesi says after a follow up investigation, he's ordered the contract rescinded. Karen DeWitt reports from Albany.  Go to full article