The Federal Lock at Troy

We were over-joyed to be once again making our way along as we took in the sights of the Port of Albany.
We noted great marketing on the part of the U-Haul company as one of their large trucks can be seen spinning on the roof of their building to the entertainment of those travelling on the expressway (and canal).
We provisioned with fresh foods at the expansive, unique outdoor market in Troy and over-
nighted in the strong current on their free town dock.
As we approached our first lock, the Federal lock at Troy, we became aware of the full magnitude of the area's extensive flooding.  Severe rains for several weeks have resulted in some counties along the Erie canal being declared disaster areas and have closed the canal (for 2 1/2 weeks at this point with at least a 2 week wait - barring further rain!).
The Champlain canal still remains open though extensive flooding was reported, so much so, even the lock operator was taking photos of the area.  When the dams are opened and the water allowed to flow through, one quarter inch of rain at the north end of the canal becomes 1 and 1/2 FEET at the south end!
As a precaution while overnighting, the lock operator asked us to move from our location tied up to the cement wall at lock 1 to the floating dock at Waterford.  While there we viewed the backlog of boats awaiting the opening of the Erie canal.  For their safety they have all been moved up to the 2nd and 3rd locks to get them out of the flooding and fluctuating water levels.
Our approach to the Federal lock was not unlike driving the "Maid of the Mist" into Niagara Falls!
We bobbed like a cork in a pot of boiling water due to the rushing flood water pouring over the adjoining falls.  Sea Star took several bangs as we edged our way into the lock through the flotsam and jetsum.
We kept a vigilant watch for deadheads as they were abundant in the canal due to the flooding.