The State Council on Waterways is a group dedicated to the preservation and revitalization of New York's natural and constructed waterways, with primary emphasis on the state canal system.  

A not-for-profit corporation, SCOW was chartered in 1986 by citizens committed to increased promotion of our precious waterways, as well as the preservation of their unique character for future generations.  

The first person to chair the organization was Alexander (Sam) Aldrich, who served as the State Parks Commissioner during the Rockefeller and Wilson administrations in the 1960's and 70's.