Glens Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Glens Falls, located in Warren County, New York, is a private hydroelectric dam on the majestic Hudson River.


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Summary

Built in 1916 by Acres International, Ltd., this concrete gravity dam stands at 16 feet in height and stretches 510 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 1,253 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 2,807 square miles, Glens Falls has a maximum discharge of 70,000 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 400 feet. Despite its age, this dam is well-maintained and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The primary purpose of Glens Falls is hydroelectric power generation, making it a crucial source of renewable energy in the region. With a surface area of 167 acres and a normal storage capacity of 1,083 acre-feet, this dam plays a key role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Although its hazard potential is deemed significant, Glens Falls has a very high risk assessment rating, indicating the importance of effective risk management measures in place.

In the care of private ownership, Glens Falls showcases the intersection of sustainable energy production and environmental stewardship. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, the operation and maintenance of this historic dam serve as a testament to the ongoing commitment to balancing energy needs with environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Hudson River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

167

Drainage Area

2807

Nid Storage

1253

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 7

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.