Warrensburg Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Warrensburg, a private hydroelectric dam located in New York's Warren County, stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Constructed in 1909 by Besha Engineering, this concrete multi-arch dam on the Schroon River boasts a height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, Warrensburg also serves as a fire protection resource, stock pond, and habitat for fish and wildlife.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Warrensburg operates with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam's controlled spillway, bascule gates, and solid foundation on rock ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, Warrensburg has been well-maintained, with its last inspection conducted in June 2017 and an Emergency Action Plan updated in December 2019. With a drainage area of 554 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 9,200 cubic feet per second, Warrensburg plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Warrensburg remains a vital asset for the community, providing renewable energy, flood protection, and recreational opportunities. Its location in the scenic Adirondack Mountains underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure in balancing environmental conservation and economic development. With ongoing monitoring and risk management measures in place, Warrensburg serves as a model for responsible dam operations and water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

288

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Schroon River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

27.5

Drainage Area

554

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

22.5

Outlet Gates

Bascule - 10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.