Pittsford welcomes Swedish canal expert

On Thursday, October 29th, Supervisor Carpenter and the Pittsford Town Board welcomed Claes-Göran Österlund from Sweden.  Chairman Österlund

is the Emeritus Director of the Göta Canal and Chairman of Scandinavian Waterways Association.  Sweden was the proud host of the 2005 World Canals Conference.  

The World Canals Conference brings canal and waterway enthusiasts, professionals and scholars from around the world, together annually to learn about a variety of topics related to canals.  These topics include: the protection of historic canals or features; revitalization of canal systems; harbor sites; canal trails and amenities; the presentation or interpretation of canals and corridors-their history and various elements; canals as a means to promote tourism, spur economic development and urban renewal; and environmental sustainability.

The World Canals Conference is an opportunity for the hosting organization to showcase their canal or waterway and its many achievements.  It typically sees representation from over 16 different countries worldwide.  Rochester will serve as host in September of 2010 (scheduled the 19th to 24^th).

Chairman Österlund tells of the Gota Canal in Sweden.