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| Happy 3rd of July... |
Syracuse's Inner Harbor is going through what city planners call a "revitalization." While it's still in the early phases, the docks are open (with electrical power) and visitors are welcome. ActiveCaptain--think AAA guide for cruisers--warned of several low bridges on the approach and questionable water depths near the docks. Before leaving Baldwinsville this morning I asked several boat neighbors if they'd visited the Inner Harbor. One had, said it was fine, but warned of pilings that had been cutoff just below the waterline. Apparently a friend of his discovered them when the bow of his boat was uncerimoniously lifted up and out of the water. Cautioned but undeterred we pressed on. Lake Onondaga, just north of Syracuse is a study in contrasts. The northwest side is a nature reserve while the southeast side has been heavily industrialized since the 1800's. The Inner Harbor is accessed by going up Onondaga Creek. The really muddy water was the first thing we noticed about the creek. To quote Hawthorne, "..as dark and turbid as if every kennel in the land paid contribution to it." Thankful, according to Wikipedia, the actual explanation is less foul:
Approximately 18 miles south of Syracuse, the Tully Valley has unique hydro-geological features called mudboils. These mudboils are the cause of the excessive sedimentation of Onondaga Lake. The sediment enters Onondaga Creek, which flows north into the lake. Sediment loading is a problem because it degrades water quality, decreases water clarity, and reduces habitat for aquatic insects, fish spawning, and plants.
Nellie's keel discovered the "excessive sedimentation" when she was 100 yards from the docks. Sometimes retreat is the best course, at least I'd like to think so, as that's what we did.
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| The Audience Assembles for the Fireworks |
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| 35 Miles From Baldwinsville, NY to Brewerton, NY |
