Schuylerville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Located in Saratoga County, New York, the Schuylerville hydroelectric dam on Fish Creek has been a vital source of renewable energy since its completion in 1919.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this concrete gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 42.5 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 5,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and supporting the surrounding ecosystem.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 550 feet, adds to its high hazard potential, making regular inspections and maintenance crucial. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the dam's emergency action plan was last updated in January 2021, indicating a commitment to preparedness and risk management. The presence of moderate risk, as assessed by the Dam Safety Action Classification system, underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and mitigation efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential water resource infrastructure.

As a primary source of hydroelectric power in the region, the Schuylerville dam serves as a prime example of the intersection between water resource management and climate action. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and FERC, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing energy needs with environmental protection in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

563

Dam Height

42.5

River Or Stream

Fish Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

252

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.