Lake Moraine in Madison County, New York, remains at a reduced water level while the state carries out a major rehabilitation of the dam that once helped supply a 19th-century canal. Built in 1836, Madison Reservoir Dam was designed to impound water from Madison Brook, also known as Payne Brook, for the Chenango Canal. Now, 190 years later, the New York State Canal Corporation is replacing key parts of the ageing structure and improving its earthen embankments. The reservoir reached its target level in early May 2026, leaving the water 10 feet below the crest of the existing spillway. The water level is expected to remain low through the end of 2027, while construction activities are scheduled to continue into 2028. The Canal Corporation says the dam is not in imminent danger of failure, but extensive work is needed to protect its long-term safety and integrity.
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