The canal water level has been lowered in Delphi in preparation for the construction of a storage warehouse.

"The stone quarry will keep about 10 to 15 percent of the flow going so that holes along the bottom will stay full for fish to survive," said Dan Mc- Cain, Canal Association president. "We encourage as much fishing as possible since fish will have a struggle for survival with limited water. The fish are expected to reproduce and come back once the proper water level is resumed."

The warehouse, which will house the future operational canal boat, will be built about a block east of the Washington Street bridge, between that bridge and the canal's "red bridge." The site is along Canal Park Annex at the old canal turning basin. Mc- Cain said Duke Energy volunteers helped clear the trees at that spot last May.

"We will recycle those maple logs by sawing them into planks for the 'kick boards' in the Duke Energysponsored mule barn relay station," he said.

The warehouse is slated for completion in late spring 2009. McCain said it will then be finished with painted murals on the loading dock doorways that will give the illusion of a working canal dock.

The contract for the canal boat and warehouse was awarded to Michiana Contracting Co. of Plymouth. The canal boat will be built offsite by sub-contractor Scarano Boat Company of Albany, N.Y. McCain said he plans to visit the plant this month.

"The Canal Board asks for the community's understanding about lowering the water level this winter, since we have no other choice," Mc- Cain said. "We anticipate having lots for everyone to celebrate when construction is completed and clean fresh water returns to the canal, ready for arrival of the new boat!"