In 1878 , the Genesee Valley Canal Railroad was completed , replacing the Genesee Valley Canal . The reservoir and a portion of the former canal were retained to help maintain water levels on the Erie Canal . Later , after New York State announced their intention to drain the reservoir , lobbying by former canal superintendent Charles Wyvelle led to the reservoir being saved . The reservoir remained at its high-water mark until 1889 , when the water level was lowered by to relieve fears raised by the Johnstown Flood that had occurred that year
Johnstown Flood
Johnstown Flood
Cuba Lake