Shore Dive Report: North End of Seneca Lake

Location: North end of Seneca Lake, near the old Seneca Canal (now beneath the Welcome Center), Geneva, NY.

Overview

This dive explores a historically significant area at the north end of Seneca Lake, once a bustling entry point for steamboats and barges from the old Seneca Canal. Over time, remnants of these vessels and their cargo have settled in the lakebed, creating an underwater treasure trove of artifacts and history.

This dive combines scanning technology and hands-on exploration to document and verify obstructions and submerged vessels.

Dive Details

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Depth Range: 6–15 meters (20–50 feet), depending on the site.
• Access: Shore or boat entry near the Welcome Center dock.
• Visibility: Typically 3–8 meters (10–25 feet), with variability due to weather and sediment.

Discoveries

1. Artifacts:

• Fragments of bottles and old pottery.
• Metallic objects, including spoons and escutcheon plates.

2. Submerged Vessels:

• Barge remnants: Located in front of the Welcome Center dock, partially buried in the lakebed.
• Bow sections:
• Of one is in deeper water, documented via scanning equipment and verified through dives.
• The other in shallower water, near the high dock with funnel-shaped shades.

3. Lakebed Structures:

• Evidence of old commercial activity, including potential remains of docks or canal-related structures.

Dive Highlights

• Historic Vessel Remains: The submerged vessels offer a glimpse into the commercial history of Seneca Lake and the old Seneca Canal.
• Artifact Hunting: Divers can observe remnants of 19th- and early 20th-century life, though collection is discouraged to preserve the site.
• Scanning and Verification: The use of scanning equipment allows precise mapping of obstructions, providing a unique exploration experience.

Tips for Divers

• Use Proper Equipment: Bring a dive light for Visibility and a camera for documentation.
• Mind the Mud: Stirring sediment can reduce Visibility; practice buoyancy control.
• Plan with Scans: If using sonar, ensure you map key points of interest before diving.
• Safety First: Be aware of lake currents and boat traffic near the dock. Use a dive flag for Visibility.

Historical Significance

The north end of Seneca Lake was once a vital point of entry for steamboats and barges, playing a significant role in trade and transportation. The old Seneca Canal, now buried, connected the region to broader markets and contributed to its economic development. The submerged artifacts and vessels are a testament to this bustling past, offering valuable insights into the area’s maritime history.

This dive site promises an exciting blend of history, exploration, and artifact observation. Future videos and dives will continue to document and uncover the secrets of Seneca Lake’s commercial past. For a visual tour, stay tuned for additional video updates documenting the findings.