NYPA Press Release

For Immediate Release:09/04/2026

Contact:j essica.kirby@nypa.gov| (518) 275-8330

 

NYPA to Close Hinckley Reservoir Boat Launch Due to Low Water Levels

 

UTICA, N.Y.—The New York Power Authority (NYPA) will close its boat launch and ramp at the Hinckley Dam and Reservoir at dusk on Tuesday, Sept. 9, due to low water levels. The nearby canoe and kayak launch area will remain open. Vessels capable of beach launch may be permitted on the water, at the discretion of the boat launch operator. 

 

NYPA will continue to monitor reservoir conditions and will reopen the boat launch if water levels return to a depth that allows for safe operation. If conditions do not improve, the boat launch will remain closed for the remainder of the season. Kayaks and canoes may continue to launch until the regular seasonal closing date, Oct. 1.

Located along the north side of the reservoir on Route 365, the boat launch was built in 1985 by NYPA as a recreational benefit in connection with the construction of the Jarvis Power Plant. NYPA also provided parking spaces for cars and boat trailers, and a turnaround area. The launch is comprised of concrete planks that extend 200 feet into the reservoir for ease of access to boaters. 

The Jarvis Power Plant, which features two turbine-generators, began operating in 1986 and is named in honor of an astronaut from the Mohawk Valley who was killed that year aboard the space shuttle Challenger.

 

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About NYPA

The New York Power Authority is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagramand Substack.