We bring people to the water and believe rowing and kayaking shared with all Rochesterians will build a community that delights in our local waterways, and the lifelong enjoyment of paddling and rowing. Self sustaining as a 501(c)(3), we will be a partner to our socio-economically diverse community by promoting education, fitness, and goodwill.

In its 30 year history, Genesee Waterways Center has been the community champion for recreational and competitive rowing, sculling and kayaking and has spawned additional rowing opportunities throughout the Greater Rochester area. GWC has supported rowing start ups by loaning equipment, coaching support, providing leadership and infrastructure support and partnering with the organizations in their growth initiatives.

In addition to the boathouse, GWC operates the only human-made whitewater park in the State of New York at Erie Canal Lock 32. This unique facility provides additional access to water activities and when necessary, allows us to move people to this more controlled environment where there is guaranteed flow via the New York State Canal Corporation.

GWC is proud to be the center of kayaking and rowing in the city, while also fostering additional opportunities throughout the region. We provide storage and easy access for tenants and continue to build, adapt and improve our services and programs. We recognize that investing in our operations and the boathouse facility improves our ability to engage a wide range of city residents in the unique experiences on the Genesee River that we offer.

Our priority audiences include youth, adults, and families within the City of Rochester— and anyone else wanting to get on the water, from all walks of life, and from near or far! Our partnerships with many schools and universities in our community continue to grow and provides many with their first time experience with water sports and an opportunity to explore the remarkable river that runs through their city. Years after their canoeing or kayaking experiences on the Genesee River and surrounding area, many have come back to say how much they remember the trip and how grateful they were for such an experience.

Board of Directors:

President - Tom Kosanke

Vice-President - Alex Macur

Treasurer/Bookkeeper – Paul Underhill

Secretary – Open (Alex Macur – temporary)

James Farr – City Representative

Jane Possee

Jerry Koehler

Steve Kittelberger

Sarah Lobe – legal support as necessary

Operations:

Executive Director: Carrie Hoey

Director of Rowing: Morgan Mastrosimone

Lock 32/Whitewater Coordinator: Paul Twist

Paige Baker: Group Paddling Coordinator

Ben Babcock: Livery Manager

Interested in joining the GWC Board of Directors? Contact us to learn more. Contact us

Interested in joining our operation team at either location? Let us know!

Contact us with your questions!