Schaghticoke Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Schaghticoke, located in Rensselaer, New York, is a private hydroelectric dam on the Hoosic River with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1909.
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Summary
This concrete gravity dam stands at 28 feet tall and stretches 700 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 795 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and meets safety guidelines, ensuring its reliability in the face of climate challenges.
Despite being a non-federal structure, Schaghticoke plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in the region. The dam's two slide gates help regulate water flow, with a maximum discharge capacity of 11,000 cubic feet per second. Its uncontrolled spillway, 150-acre surface area, and 635-acre drainage area demonstrate its importance in controlling flooding and supporting ecosystem health. As climate change intensifies, the dam's role in water conservation and renewable energy generation becomes increasingly vital.
The dam's location, design, and functionality make it a key asset for the community, with its emergency action plan regularly updated to ensure preparedness for any unforeseen events. In the hands of private owners, Schaghticoke continues to provide valuable services while adhering to state regulations and inspection requirements. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, recognizing the significance of structures like Schaghticoke in sustainable development and environmental stewardship is essential for building a resilient future.
Year Completed |
1909 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Hoosic River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
150 |
Drainage Area |
635 |
Nid Storage |
795 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Schaghticoke
Hudson River Road 951, City of Mechanicville