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DEWITT, N.Y. -- There is a breach in an Erie Canal aqueduct in DeWitt, but according to canal officials, it poses no threat to the public or the environment.

Officials from the State Canal Corporation assessed the damage of an old aqueduct on Saturday. This aqueduct, which dates back to the 1840s, is causing water to flow out of the canal into Butternut Creek, leading to erosion and flooding.

They are current evaluating how extensive the needed repairs will be.

"This is a valuable structure for us. It's part of history, it's part of our canal system. And New York State canals, whether the it's the water channel or this beautiful park which is part of our statewide canal trail, brings about $380 million of direct tourism revenue to our state. So it's important that we have a working trail, and a beautiful trail, and a safe trail," said Brian Stratton, New York State Canal Corporation Director.

Due to this breach, the Erie Canal Path in DeWitt is closed between Butternut Drive and Cedar Bay Park until further notice.