ROCHESTER, N.Y. — It was 200 years ago that the Erie Canal was just beginning to wind its way toward Rochester. It would be three years before it stretched across New York, but by this time, two centuries ago, crews were finishing the Great Embankment. 

The mile-long 70-foot high wall of earth and stone carries the canal through Perinton and Pittsford. It's just one of the achievements that will bring the 2022 New York State Canal Conference to Rochester during the first week of October.

Hundreds will attend and help shape the canal's future more than its past.

"As we look forward to the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Erie Canal in 2025, it's an opportunity for canalside communities to both celebrate the historic significance of this moment for New York state, but also measure the value our canal system brings to their local economies and the pride it brings to their communities," Gov. Kathy Hochul said. "The Canal Conference connects New Yorkers to their waterways, bringing together and inspiring residents with advocates and experts from across the state."

Two mobile workshops will be featured. One will take attendees to Fairport on the Colonial Belle. There will also be a community celebration honoring the Roc the Riverway program.

In addition, the spotlight will be focused on a first look at how Rochester plans to reimagine its iconic downtown aqueduct.

"The cities that we visit, and a lot of us go around the country, embrace their water," said Mayor Malik Evans. "Rochester, that is what all of these projects are about, embracing where we came from, and it's that water. We need to go back and do that."

Other highlights include paddling, hiking and cycling along the Genesee River and boat cruises on the waterway.

The event is taking place Oct. 2-4 at the Strathallan Hotel on East Avenue.

For more information or to register for the event, click here.