The 2025 World Canals Conference has started in Buffalo, coinciding with the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. The event brings together canal enthusiasts, historians, and waterway experts from around the world to discuss the history and future of canal systems, with a particular focus on New York State’s Erie Canal.
Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed attendees, stating, “The Erie Canal is more than a waterway; it is a symbol of perseverance and progress. Two hundred years ago, it stood as a marvel for innovation and determination fueling America’s growth and opening pathways of opportunity. Today, as we celebrate its bicentennial, I am honored to welcome the world to Buffalo, my hometown, for the 2025 World Canals Conference. Together, we will carry forward the Erie Canal’s legacy as a global symbol of connection, commerce, and possibility for the next century and beyond.”
This year marks 200 years since the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. The canal played an important role in New York State’s development by supporting trade, transportation, recreation, economic growth, environmental resilience, and community connectivity. Hosting this international conference in Buffalo highlights New York’s ongoing commitment to preserving its waterways while encouraging collaboration with experts worldwide.
The conference is cohosted by several organizations: New York Power Authority (NYPA), New York State Canal Corporation (NYSCC), Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC), Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, Visit Buffalo Niagara, and Inland Waterways International. It features presentations, workshops, tours along Buffalo’s waterfront and other canal communities between Buffalo and Rochester.
John Koelmel, Chairman of NYPA’s Board of Trustees said: “Hosting the World Canals Conference in Buffalo is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the Erie Canal’s historical significance and its continued impact on our state. This event brings together experts and enthusiasts who share a passion for waterways, and it will provide a platform for innovative ideas and collaborations. We are proud to showcase the Erie Canal, and to support this global gathering as part of its Bicentennial celebration.”
Justin E. Driscoll, President & CEO of NYPA added: “The Erie Canal has played a pivotal role in shaping New York State’s economy and culture since its opening in 1825. The 2025 World Canals Conference offers a unique chance to reflect on its past while envisioning its future. We are excited to welcome international delegates to Buffalo and to participate in meaningful discussions that will drive the preservation and enhancement of canal systems worldwide.”
Brian U. Stratton from NYSCC commented: “The Erie Canal’s Bicentennial is a significant milestone, and hosting the World Canals Conference in Buffalo is a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. This conference will provide a forum for sharing knowledge, celebrating achievements, and planning for the future of canals. We look forward to welcoming attendees and honoring 200 years of the Erie Canal’s rich history and bright future.”
Joan Kesner from ECHDC stated: “New York State is honored to host the World Canal Conference, a perfect culmination to Canalside’s summer-long commemoration of the Erie Canal’s 200th anniversary. As we welcome guests from around the globe to Canalside, Governor Hochul and ECHDC are not only commemorating a pivotal part of our state and nation’s history but also looking forward to the Buffalo waterfront’s vibrant future.”
Bob Radliff from Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor said: “We look forward to talking about the future of canals everywhere with the most forward-thinking experts in canalside development, waterway engineering and management, and canal tourism and preservation. There’s no better time or place for this gathering than the Bicentennial of the Erie Canal and the Queen City of Buffalo. We are excited to showcase Buffalo and the region to our state, national and international attendees.”
Patrick Kaler from Visit Buffalo Niagara remarked: “We are thrilled to welcome the World Canals Conference to Buffalo at such a historic moment. For a week our city will serve as a global gathering place to celebrate inland waterways explore the future of sustainable waterway development,and honorthe200th anniversaryoftheErieCanal.WiththeSenecaChiefvoyagesettingoutfromourwaterfront,Buffaloisproudtoshowcasebothitshistoryanditsvisiontoaninternationalaudience.”
Sharon Leighton from Inland Waterways International said: “I am thrilled towelcome canal expertsfromaroundtheworldtoBuffaloandmyhomewaterway,theErieCanal,wecommemorateitsbicentennial.Aswebuildandsupportthisnetworkofknowledgeandinformationsharing,wewillalsobecreatingthemeanst ohelpfuturegenerationsunderstandandbenefitfromconservationaboutourinlandwaterways.”
A highlight during this weeklong conference will be on Wednesday September 24 when Seneca Chief,a replica boat built bytheBuffaloMaritimeCenter,recreatesGovernorDeWittClinton’straditionalvoyagefromBuffalotoNewYorkHarbor.TheboatwillstopatcommunitiesalongtheErieCanalandHudsonRiverwithcommemorativeeventsatsome locations before arriving at New York Harbor on October 26,the date marking completionoftheoriginalcanalin1825.Theprojecthasbeenrecognizedasoneofthelargestcommunity-basedboatbuildinginitiativesglobally.
For more information about events duringtheconference visittheWorldCanalsConferencewebsite.
