Canal Corporation: County Executive's request is premature

By By MIKE LaFAVE

Story Created: Mar 10, 2010 at 5:45 PM EDT

Story Updated: Mar 10, 2010 at 6:34 PM EDT

REMSEN, N.Y. (WKTV) - Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente wants a deviation in the water outflow of the Hinckley Reservoir, but the Canal Corporation describes the request as "premature."

The County Executive is asking for the reduction of outflow due to the current low-water level at the reservoir - almost 1,189 feet.

The Mohawk Valley Water Authority said that when the level goes below 1,185 it's cause for concern.

Canal Corporation representative Carmella Mantello said an old agreement prevents them from deviating before it reaches the 1,185 level. However, she maintains safe public drinking water is the first priority.

"There's quite a bit of snow melt, and you've probably read there's rain around the corner," Mantello said. "So, we expect the reservoir to fill back up. But, we're not going to let the reservoir get to an 1,185 mark."

Picente said he will ask the governor to intervene on the matter.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On