Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): A Canadian approved PFD is designed to keep you afloat in the water. PFDs were designed for use in recreational boating and are generally smaller, less bulky and more comfortable than lifejackets.
The Erie Canal, in New York state (shown below), was 360 mi (580 km) long, and connected New York with the Great Lakes via the Hudson River. Locks were built to overcome the 571-ft (174-m) difference between the level of the river and that of Lake Erie.
One of the greatest contributions the Erie Canal made to the state of New York was the population increase and financial prosperity of its cities on the canal. Trade between the East and West increased through the route and also became easier with Europe â the Erie Canal was indeed âThe Great Water Highwayâ (9).