Spier Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Spier Falls, located in Hudson Falls, New York, is a gravity and masonry dam completed in 1903 for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 146 feet and a length of 1400 feet, this structure provides a storage capacity of 31,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 638 acres. The dam's spillway, controlled with a width of 818 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 100,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Spier Falls plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of the Hudson River for electricity generation while also offering recreational opportunities. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is rated as very high risk (1) but its condition assessment is currently not available. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in January 2021, ensuring that necessary measures are in place for any potential risk scenarios.

With its historical significance and impactful role in water resource management and climate initiatives, Spier Falls remains a vital asset in the region. Its engineering marvel and operational efficiency continue to serve as a testament to sustainable energy production and environmental conservation efforts along the Hudson River.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

146

River Or Stream

Hudson River

Surface Area

638

Drainage Area

2779

Nid Storage

31000

Outlet Gates

Needle - 11, Tainter (radial) - 16

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

146
       
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.