ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Historic preservation groups and maritime history buffs are urging New York state to reconsider its plans for obsolete canal vessels.

The Times Union of Albany reports the Preservation League of New York State and Erie Canal heritage groups met with state officials this week to discuss the scuttling of old canal boats and plans to put another vessel on display at a Thruway rest stop.

Several canal boats have already been sunk in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Long Island along with pieces of the Tappan Zee Bridge to form an artificial reef. Plans are under review to sink several more canal vessels.

Meanwhile, the state's proposals for the Urger, a 117-year-old canal tugboat, includes displaying it on land at an Interstate 90 rest stop along the Mohawk River in Montgomery County.

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