The 2025 World Canals Conference has begun in Buffalo, coinciding with the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. The event brings together an international group of canal enthusiasts, historians, and waterway experts to discuss the history and future of canal systems, with a focus on New York State’s Erie Canal.
Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed attendees by 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.”
The Erie Canal marks 200 years since its opening in 1825. Over two centuries, it has played a significant role in trade, transportation, recreation, economic development, environmental resilience, and community connectivity throughout New York State.
This year’s conference is cohosted by several organizations: the New York Power Authority (NYPA), New York State Canal Corporation, Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC), Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, Visit Buffalo Niagara, and Inland Waterways International. The program includes presentations, workshops, tours along Buffalo’s waterfront and other canal communities between Buffalo and Rochester. Participants will share knowledge about challenges facing inland waterways globally.
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.”
NYPA President & CEO Justin E. Driscoll 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 the New York State Canal Corporation 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 said: “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 stated: “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 honor the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal. With the Seneca Chief voyage setting out from our waterfront, Buffalo is proud to showcase both its history and its vision to an international audience.”
Sharon Leighton from Inland Waterways International concluded: “I am thrilled to welcome canal experts from around the world to Buffalo and my home waterway—the Erie Canal—as we commemorate its bicentennial. As we build and support this network of knowledge and information sharing,we will also be creating means to help future generations understand and benefit from conservation about our inland waterways.”
A highlight during this conference will be Wednesday’s launch of Seneca Chief—a replica boat recreating Governor DeWitt Clinton’s original journey marking completion of the Erie Canal in 1825—from Buffalo to New York Harbor; arrival is scheduled October 26.
For more details about programming or events at this year’s conference visit [the official website](https://www.worldcanalsconference.org/).
