Vischer Ferry Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Vischer Ferry, also known as Dam 3, is a state-owned hydroelectric structure located in Vischer Ferry, Saratoga, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1913, this concrete gravity dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans 1919 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 27,400 acre-feet with a normal storage of 25,000 acre-feet. Situated on the Mohawk River, the dam serves the primary purposes of hydroelectric power generation and navigation, contributing to the area's water resource management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Vischer Ferry has a spillway width matching its dam length, with uncontrolled spillway type. The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a moderate risk assessment score. Despite lacking specific condition assessment data, the structure undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2019. With a total of seven slide (sluice gate) outlet gates, Vischer Ferry plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and discharge in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate advocacy can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Vischer Ferry in harnessing hydropower and regulating water flow along the Mohawk River. As a key component in the area's infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the intersection of sustainable energy production and environmental stewardship, offering valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

1919

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Mohawk River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1050

Drainage Area

3385

Nid Storage

27400

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

30
       
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.