Locks E-7 through E-20 of the Erie Canal will operate on a modified schedule for recreational boating starting Tuesday to help conserve water, state officials said.

The locks will be open for eastbound traffic on the hour and westbound traffic on the half hour, according to the state Canal Corp. The measures are aimed at conserving water, reducing the total amount of water needed to continue canal operations.

"In light of the lack of rainfall this summer in the Mohawk Valley, we are taking early, proactive steps to conserve water," said Canal Corporation Director Carmella Mantello in a release Monday. "We will continue to take the appropriate steps to ensure that the Canal remains open for navigation."

The measures may be suspended if rainfall amounts return to normal.

The canal's fall hours of operation -- from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. -- began Sunday.

E-7 is in Niskayuna, Schenectady County, and E-20 is in Marcy, Oneida County.